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Everyone Knows Girls Are Bad at Math, Right?!

By Maureen Leonard (rr)

Everyone Knows Girls Are Bad at Math, Right?!


 

Abstract

This case study explores the biology and culture of sex and gender, and focuses on the science and pseudoscience that surrounds this topic, especially focusing on math performance.  The case leads students to seek out and evaluate popular culture references to gender differences and gender norms in terms of their scientific validity.  Then students examine the concepts of biological sex, gender, and how these may not be the same.  The scientific evidence for differences in math performance are examined and evaluated and the statistical approach to meta-analysis is introduced, as well as the phenomenon of stereotype threat.  Discussion of what are "real" differences between the genders is also explored.  Portions of the case are presented in the flipped fashion. The case was originally written for an introductory biology course, but could also be used in any developmental biology or human biology course. It could also be used in psychology, gender studies, or even in a general education course.

   

Date Posted

04/05/2018

Overview

Objectives

  • Identify and describe perceived gender differences in traits..
  • Evaluate sources for reliability.
  • Describe how data on gender differences in math performance are analyzed to assess the validity of claims about gender.
  • Describe and possibly counter stereotype threat.
  • Read primary literature effectively.

Keywords

sex; gender; sex differences; gender differences; math performance; androgeny; stereotype threat; BMI; BSRI; anxiety

  

Subject Headings

Biology (General)
Science (General)
Science Education
Statistics

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

Scientific method, Pseudoscience, Social justice issues, Women in science

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Flipped, Interrupted

 

 

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