The lack of women in stem fields reminds us of and emphasizes the issue of gender

inequality. It is irrefutable that their is a disproportional ratio of males to females in stem fields
specifically, and this can be acclaimed to underlying issues of gender bias. Gender bias can be
defined as unfair difference in the way men and women are treated. This issue of gender bias and
inequality in stem fields is a problem and can be proven based on primary research conducted,
statistical numbers, and societal opinions and views.
A survey on students opinions of gender bias at Uncc and in their majors/career fields
was conducted in a uwrt class which provided a lot of interesting data. The results of the survey
can be analyzed to say: their is not an equal proportion of men and females in their chosen career
fields, majors, and classes. Majority also answered that their is an equal opportunity for both men
and women in their career fields. One of the main issues pertaining to gender bias and inequality
is that it goes unnoticed. Often times men are more likely to think that gender bias is not an issue
in their workplace in comparison to women. On the contrary, a small amount also elaborated and
said that there is not an equal opportunity and as a result programs are being created to assist
those who typically have to work harder to become successful in a particular field.

An academic journal used in the initial research of this inquiry project also supports the
claim that gender bias exist and is an issue in stem fields with statistical data. For example, in
the data provided, each stem major was broken down and showed bias favoring men. It is also
noticed in the academic journal that women who work in stem fields are less likely to be paid
equally and as a whole there is even a lack of representation in the workforce as well as
undergraduate and postgraduate students. With less women making it on to become professionals
in the field and receiving less pay, gender bias is easily noticed. Studies conducted also showed
that men had higher self efficacy than women in the field, or the measure of strength of belief
that one could complete a task or goal. This can be related back to societal beliefs that men are
better at science and math than women.
Many other factors of societal beliefs play a role in the way women perform and join
stem fields. Ensuring a sense of belonging and disciplinary identity are also important for
success; if women in the field do not feel accepted and confident they are less likely to stay in
the field and or be successful in it. These societal beliefs can be changed however, and it begins
with the way our youth are taught. If young children of both genders are taught that they are
equally talented and capable of performing well in all subjects they are more likely to defy these
gender stereotypes. If young girls are also promoted in particular to pursue stem fields as well
from an early age a new trend will start that can help the ratio of males to females become
proportionate.
Some popular counter arguments state that: simply getting more women into stem fields
does not solve the problem; women are biologically not as capable of succeeding in stem fields;
and gender bias does not exist. Many are concerned that simply recruiting more women to join
the stem fields will not solve the problem which is correct, however, it is a major contributor to a
solution. As more women join the field they will gain a greater sense of acceptance and identity,
and realize that they are just as capable. Men on the other hand as well will realize that women
can too perform well and be successful in the field and learn how to work with women to
understand their talents.
Often times many like to say that women are not science and math oriented and typically
do better in creative based fields. Even though women and men may see and think of things
differently, it does not mean that they are not able to be successful in both stem and art fields.
Just because women tend to be more in tune with emotions and creative that does not they do not
hold critical thinking skills that can be used in stem fields.
Overall gender bias and inequality is an issue in stem fields. The issue does not lie at women not
being capable of performing well academically but more so the struggles of: finding acceptance
in the field, self identity given that they do not feel a sense of belonging, and engagement. These
struggles can be combated by changing societal perspectives on women in stem fields and by
encouraging the idea that men and women are equal from a young age.