1. Underrepresentation and Discrimination in STEM Fields Emily King (Mathematics) Jaymie Strecker (Computer Science) Michelle Zimmermann (Physics) October 29, 2008

2. Who works in STEM fields?

6. “I like to solve simple problems like extra dimensions in space. Everyone thinks [women in science] is a simpler issue, but it is so much more complicated.” - Lisa Randall “How It Works” (xkcd)

7. Causes of underrepresentation Misconception of field Mentoring and role models  Euro-centric story of science history  Pointing out minorities = affirmative action? Self-confidence (impostor syndrome) Balancing work and family Outright racism or sexism  Perceived ability to report and change it

8. Sexism does still exist Examples  Initials or first names on published papers  Postdoc committees  Our stories Perception of women: competent vs. nice Unintentional sexism still counts (and we do it too)

9. Data analysis

12. Cultural differences Malaysia  More female than male CS/IT students  "Our findings lead us to conclude there is no gender bias with regard to how CS/IT is perceived by young Malaysians." Othman & Latih. Communications of the ACM. 49(3):111-114. Afghanistan  Kabul: 33% women in CS, but 25% women in university overall Italy  “Italy's record in awarding a large number of advanced science degrees to women is partly attributed to Italy's educational policy of mandatory math and science classes for all students.” Turkey  “…A similar policy is found in Turkey, where the same level of math and science are taught to both girls and boys at the pre- college level. These courses are then a critical part of the competition for the few places in the university, so all students are required to take them.” (Margolis, Fisher & Miller, work in progress)

13. What to take away Be aware of and reflect on your assumptions Notice the assumptions others are making Speak up if you or someone else is being treated unfairly Make friends! You’re not alone

14. Groups on campus Mathematics  Women in Mathematics Computer Science  Association for Women in Computing  CS Latino Group Engineering  Women's Community at Clark School of Engineering  National Society of Black Engineers Physics  Women in Physics SCORE (Student Community for Outreach, Retention & Excellence)