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GENDER IN THE GEOSCIENCES

This research study investigates the factors that support the recruitment and retention of women in undergraduate geoscience majors. It examines the differences between male and female students and explores departmental practices and culture. The study concludes with recommendations for adopting student-centered practices and creating awareness of gender-related treatment within departments.

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GENDER IN THE GEOSCIENCES

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  1. GENDER IN THE GEOSCIENCES • FACTORS SUPPORTING THE RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION OF WOMEN IN THE UNDERGRADUATE MAJOR • Julie Sexton, University of Northern Colorado • Eric Riggs, Texas A&M University • Kevin Pugh, University of Northern Colorado • Cassendra Bergstrom, University of Northern Colorado • Rhonda Parmley, Quaternia Services, LLC • Michael Phillips, University of Northern Colorado

  2. Background • Women are under-represented in the geosciences • 40% at undergraduate level • 27% of all geoscience occupations • 15% of university/college faculty

  3. Research Questions for Overall Study • What factors help us understand why students chose a geoscience major? Are there differences for female and male students? • Why are some departments more successful than others at recruiting and retaining female students?

  4. Social Cognitive Career Theory Factors Predict Outcome • Environmental • Barriers/supports • Connection to Instructor • Department Practices and Culture Academic & Career Choice • Personal/Cognitive • Self-Efficacy • Interest/Identity • Behavioral • Transformative Experience

  5. Data Collection for Larger Study • 6 geoscience departments • 4 low female sites: graduate < 40% female students • 2 high female sites: graduate > 40% female students • Data collection • Pre and post online surveys from 408 students. • Faculty & student interviews: 48 faculty members and 136 students.

  6. Study Findings Finding 1: What factors predict selection and persistence in a geoscience major? Finding 2: How do department practices differ among site types? Finding 3:What types of negative treatment and perceptions are encountered by female students and how do these experiences differ by site type?

  7. Finding 1: What factors predict selection and persistence in a geoscience major? Major & Career Outcomes Model is Statistically Stronger for Women Personal Factors Environmental Factors Behavioral Factors Intent to Major InstitutionalBarriers (negative predictor) Confidence in Major Interest/ Identity Intent to Pursue a Career Self-Efficacy ConnectiontoInstructor TransformativeExperience More important for women

  8. Finding 2: How do department practices differ among site types?

  9. Finding 2: How do department practices differ among site types? Low Sites Faculty-Centered Approach High Sites Student-Centered Approach

  10. Finding 3: What types of negative treatment and perceptions are encountered by site type?

  11. Finding 3: What types of negative treatment and perceptions are encountered by site type?

  12. Overall Study Conclusions and Recommendations • Conclusions • Personal/cognitive, environmental, and behavioral factors important for understanding recruitment and retention of all students and for understanding gender differences. • Departmental practices and culture differ by site type and may contribute to recruitment and retention of women. • Recommendations • Adopt student-centered department practices and transformative teaching practices • Develop awareness of department culture and treatment of students related to gender

  13. Thank you! Grants HRD 1136233 HRD 1136238

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