Task 3: Database of good practices for girls and young women, parents, and organizations
There are many initiatives around the world that aim to enhance the participation of girls and women in science and mathematics. Which ones work? What is the evidence for effectiveness? Can effective practices developed in one place be used in other contexts? How do we know?
These are some of the questions that will structure an online database of good practices. It will be hosted by the International Mathematical Union (IMU) in the first instance, and disseminated through each participating organization. It will contain information on existing initiatives for which evidence of effectiveness exists. It will include searches and categorizations that will make the material easy to use. Some information on initiatives will be gathered as part of Task 1 and Task 2, but mainly through existing networks of each participating organization. The database will include a facility for adding new items, and guidance and support for the development and evaluation of new initiatives.
Task 3 includes the translation and distribution of materials, not only to young women, but also to parents and organizations involved in guiding young women into careers. This is especially important in developing countries, where information is needed about the stability of a career in science, and the availability of jobs. We understand that efficiently reaching parents is a real challenge. Recognizing that perceptions of science and scientists arise during school, we will ensure that the database includes material targeting girls and young women of school age.
Please help us build a global database of gender initiatives.
If you know of any initiatives that enhance the participation of girls and women in science and mathematics please send the name of the initiative to
databaseofgoodpractices@gmail.com.
Update by the end of the project: the database of good practises can be accessed here.