Science Capital
PROBLEM
There are societal barriers for girls and women to enter into Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) in higher education and careers related jobs. As the influence of technology increases, this underrepresentation could pose serious problems to the earning capacities of women in the immediate future.
SOLUTION
Science Capital is a school-based gender-transformative learning programme that uses activity-based and experiential learning to help adolescent girls’ build science capital, and improve their interest and aspirations for STEM in higher education and as careers.
DESIGN
The 70-hour programme is delivered through blended means in schools for girls in classes 8-10. Girls are provided with self-learning content aligned to the state syllabus to improve foundation and pre-requisite competencies in STEM subjects.
This is complemented by the use of activity-based experiential learning such as DIY Classes and STEM clubs which are delivered by trained Community Academic Volunteers (CAVs). Girls also attend online and in-person sessions with women in STEM as part of Role Model sessions, to build their aspirations and interest in STEM in higher education and as a career
OUTCOMES
01
Resources adapted to local context to improve knowledge of gender stereotypes and rights for students and facilitators
02
Intersectional and participatory approach to create student centered dialogue around building awareness
03
Delivered by facilitators or teachers who have received gender sensitivity training
IMPACT
47%
girls demonstrated learning gains in Science, Math and English
53%
girls on an average ) have expressed interest in pursuing STEM subjects in higher education
REACH
7,286
girls in West Bengal
