Female Student
ENCOURAGING female students to take maths and science as subjects during their HSC years has become an uphill battle for teachers and parents.
A University of Sydney's study found that only 13.8 per cent of girls in 2011 went on to study maths/science in the HSC.
Research suggests that if the trend continues there will be a steady reduction in future HSC students taking the subject who will be suitable for post-secondary courses and university entry.
The study reveals the gender disparity in both subjects is now greater than it was during the 1980s.
Policies to redress the decline and gender disparity are being considered by academics to combat the decreasing figures.
Here's what parents and teachers of high school students can do to help prevent the cycle:
● Encourage children to do their homework; this is a fundamental part of being a high school student.
● Make maths and science enjoyable so it doesn't just feel like school work.
● Get tutors to support school work; students will benefit from the one-on-one learning environment.
● Praise children's efforts; everybody needs a little encouragement now and then.
● Focus on their abilities
● Avoid stereotyping subjects; maths and science are not 'boys' subjects.
It's important to remember to encourage female students to tackle all subjects across the board.
● For more information on the study visit www.maths.usyd.edu.au