As educators, you have the power to shape the future of your students. One of the most impactful ways to do this is by breaking down stereotypes and building a sense of belonging in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) classrooms. This article offers practical strategies you can implement today to make a lasting difference.
The Problem: Stereotypes Start Early
Research shows that gender stereotypes—especially those about interest, not just ability—begin influencing students’ choices from a young age. Even well-meaning phrases like “girls are just as good as boys at maths” can backfire, subtly reinforcing the idea that STEM is a male domain.
The Opportunity: Early Primary is Key
Studies with children aged 6–8 show no gender differences in interest or confidence in coding. This is a critical window. By introducing STEM early—especially computer science and engineering—you can foster confidence and curiosity before stereotypes take hold.
Classroom Strategies You Can Use Today
- Make STEM mandatory and visible: Don’t let STEM be an elective where girls are underrepresented. Integrate it into the core curriculum so all students participate.
- Use inclusive language: Avoid reinforcing stereotypes, even subtly. Phrases like “girls can do this too” may unintentionally suggest they don’t belong.
- Celebrate mistakes: In engineering and coding, failure is part of the process. Normalise it. Show students that mistakes are how we learn and grow.
- Label what you’re already doing: You’re probably already teaching computational thinking—through patterns, problem-solving, and tinkering. Name it. Help students see they’re already engaging in STEM.
- Show diverse role models: Use Future You Australia to showcase real-world STEM professionals from diverse backgrounds. Representation matters—students need to see people like them in these roles.
What You Can Do Next
- Audit your classroom: Review your language, posters, books, and activities. Are they reinforcing or challenging stereotypes?
- Introduce coding and engineering early: Use tools like ScratchJr, Hour of Code, or unplugged activities to make these subjects fun and accessible.
- Tell more stories: Share stories of women, First Nations people, and others from underrepresented groups in STEM. Use Future You Australia as a resource.
- Promote a growth mindset: Encourage effort, persistence, and risk-taking. Let students know it’s okay to struggle—that’s how learning happens.
Final Thought
STEM is for everyone. As a teacher, you have the power to make that real. By using inclusive strategies and showcasing diverse role models, you can help every student see themselves as a scientist, engineer, coder—or anything they want to be.
This article draws on insights from a conversation between Professor Lisa Harvey-Smith and Dr Alison Master, whose research explores identity, motivation, and the impact of stereotypes in education. You can watch their discussion in full.
For more resources and classroom-ready materials, visit www.FutureYouAustralia.com.au.
