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Facilitating factors encouraging girl learners to choose science, technology, engineering, and mathematical subjects and related careers: A South African case study

Author

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  • Zamandlovu Makola

    (University of South Africa)

  • Ramudunguane Tabane

    (University of South Africa)

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a drive to recruit more women into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers. However, a perceived lack of interest by girl learners in STEM subjects and careers presents a challenge. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the reasons that encourage high school girls to choose STEM subjects and careers. A qualitative design that adopted the case study approach using the interpretivist paradigm was chosen for this study. The data were collected using a focus group with a novel sample of girls taking technical subjects at a technical high school in a rural area. The study identified four facilitating factors that steer girl learners towards choosing STEM subjects and STEM-related careers. These factors were primary school experience, parental influence, prosperity through employment and entrepreneurial opportunities, breaking stereotypes, and being a role model. The insights gained from this study could be beneficial to the government, businesses, social activists, schools, teachers, and other relevant stakeholders in encouraging girl learners to choose STEM-related and related careers. Key Words: STEM careers, technical high school, STEM subjects, girl learners, girls in STEM

Suggested Citation

  • Zamandlovu Makola & Ramudunguane Tabane, 2023. "Facilitating factors encouraging girl learners to choose science, technology, engineering, and mathematical subjects and related careers: A South African case study," International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), Center for the Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, vol. 12(5), pages 372-380, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:rbs:ijbrss:v:12:y:2023:i:5:p:372-380
    DOI: 10.20525/ijrbs.v12i5.2537
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