BackgroundThe underrepresentation of women in STEM fields is a pervasive global issue. Despite evidence casting doubt on the preconceived notions that males outperform females in these domains, gender stereotype beliefs persist and have been highlighted as potential cultural barriers limiting females opportunities. Gender stereotype and ability beliefs emerge in early childhood and recent evidence has highlighted early childhood education as a promising period for the cultivation of positive STEM dispositions. AimsThis study investigated gender stereotype beliefs, mathematical self-beliefs and STEM attitudes among a sample of pre-service early childhood teachers to assess the existence of stereotype endorsements and predictive relationships with STEM interests.SampleParticipants were pre-service early childhood teacher (N=74), mean age 21.17 years, 4 males and 70 femalesMethodsElectronic surveys utilising a series of pre-established scales, measuring gender stereotype bias from ability and cultural perspectives, mathematical self-belief variables (self-efficacy, self-concept, anxiety), and interest in STEM, were distributed. ResultsRegression analysis reveal previous level of mathematical study at secondary school, social persuasions as a sources of self-efficacy and gender stereotype endorsements as significant predictors of overall attitude to STEMConclusions Findings suggest the importance of previous school experience and social influences as well as participants’ gender stereotype endorsements in influencing interest in STEM. These data are discussed in light of implications for teachers; future practice and teacher education
Training may enhance early childhood educators’ self-efficacy to lead physical activity in childcare
