M*MINT

Girls* in STEM fields

There is a wide variety of pedagogical concepts and collections of methods on the topic of discovery-based and inquiry-based learning, as well as corresponding areas of focus in teacher education. There is undoubtedly room for improvement when it comes to gender-sensitive instruction of STEM content. The project focuses on teaching STEM content in early childhood and elementary education, with a particular emphasis on a gender-reflective approach. Specific objectives:

• Research on existing regional STEM programs and their clear, online presentation
• Establishment of a network
• Design and implementation of a training program for multipliers and an Educational Summer Lab; piloting of short STEM modules by students at the PH and students at the BAfEP
• Target-group-appropriate evaluation with children

Results & Outlook

• Gender Competency Training for Female Primary and Early Childhood Educators in Training
• Practical trials and classroom observations as part of workshops and internships
• Reflection workshops for participating educators
• An online collection on STEM education and gender-reflective pedagogy: interesting links, methodological tips, professional development opportunities, recommendations for action, videos, social media profiles, etc.—for educators, parents, and anyone interested
• Regular posts on gender-sensitive STEM education on our social media channels
• Mobile M*MINT library on the topic of «Growing Up Free of Stereotypes»

Methodology, Approach, and Key Areas of Focus

• Raising awareness among prospective educators regarding a gender-sensitive approach to educational work, with a particular focus on STEM education
• Practical application of the content taught through internships, STEM workshops, trial lessons, mentoring, classroom observations, and reflective discussions
• Opportunity for mutual classroom observation (teacher education and BAfEP students)
• Reflection, exchange, and knowledge transfer

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The EqualiZ project was implemented in cooperation with Bafep Kärnten and PH Kärnten | NAWImix, and supported by the Federal Chancellery, MINTality, and EIL4MINT (FFG and the Innovation Foundation for Education).