ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews the literature on fairness, inclusion, and equity in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) contexts, with particular attention to gender. Globally, girls and women have been and continue to be underrepresented in STEM fields. In this chapter, we argue that stereotypes, bias, and discrimination around who can and should have opportunities in STEM domains foster exclusion from STEM for girls and women in STEM fields in a multitude of ways. We review findings from research with children, adolescents, and adults, documenting pervasive gender stereotypes and other forms of bias and how these biases limit opportunities for girls and women. Further, we argue for the consideration of STEM gender disparities to be a moral issue, grounded in thinking about fairness and equity about who we are and how we are not afforded opportunities in STEM domains. Finally, this chapter provides suggestions for future research examining gender inequity in STEM, highlighting the importance of documenting individuals’ cognition, assumptions, and stereotypes in order to propel change and ensure equity in STEM contexts.
