What really lies at the root of the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields? And what can we do about it? University of Toronto researcher Dr. Ismael Mourifié is mining data to develop a clearer picture.
Dr. Mourifié’s work develops statistical methods to examine the evidence for the two major theories behind the discrepancy between men and women in STEM (the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics). One explanation says that because women anticipate wage discrimination in STEM careers, they are discouraged from enrolling in postsecondary programs in these sectors; the other points the finger at non-monetary social factors such as stereotyping and gender profiling.
Dr. Mourifié’s research points to social factors as having the greatest influence on the gender gap in STEM. They also predict that many women not choosing STEM would in fact have benefitted more (in terms of labour outcomes, better careers and higher income) if they had entered a STEM career. He also says many girls develop “mathemaphobia” and avoid math as they progress through school.
Dr. Mourifié’s work won him the prestigious 2017 Polanyi Prize in Economic Science. Dr. Mourifié, a native of Ivory Coast who came to Canada in 2008, also intends to focus similar research on minority groups and financially constrained students.
