Over the past 50 years, women in the United States have made great strides in education and entry into the work force in this country. However, despite these advances, women continue to be underrepresented in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Studies show that girls lose interest in math and science during middle school, and STEM interest for girls is low, compared to boys. Most research on this topic has focused on representation of girls and women in these fields, primarily on the obstacles preventing more girls and women from entering them. “It is time now to shift the focus toward understanding and developing solutions for “what works” for girls who show interest and engage in the fields of STEM,” said Susan McGraw, GSSEM Chief Operating Officer.
This fall GSSEM has partnered with FIRST, an organization dedicated to advancing the field of STEM to students in Michigan, to present a series of exciting new STEM programs that include a Girl Scout FIRST Lego League with several robotics teams. “FIRST was created with a vision of transforming our culture by creating a world where science and technology are celebrated, and where young people dream of being science and technology heroes,” said Gail Alpert, President of FIRST in Michigan. Students on FIRST teams learn from and play with the “pros” - professional engineers who donate their time to work side-by-side with students. “This gives students an insider’s view of a career in science, engineering and technology not possible in a normal classroom setting,” said Alpert.
Studies show that parents and mentors play a huge role in helping girls to become engaged in STEM fields. Did you know that 21% of girls say their parents encourage them to become an actress, while 10% of girls say their parents have encouraged them to think about an engineering career? Inspire your Girl Scout to explore science, technology, engineering, and math at our next STEM event:
Girls will have the opportunity to start FIRST Lego League teams, build their own robots and take part in competitions. TThis is a partnership with FIRST of Michigan and FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Team 469 and Team 33 with support of the Robot Garage. Register HERE.