Effects Of Numeric Representation Of Women On Interest In Engineering As A Career

Abstract

Little is known about how the presence of women influences undergraduates’ experiences in engineering. This paper presents results from a mixed methods, multivariate, and multi- institutional study to determine the impact of the numeric representation of women on the intent to be employed in engineering following graduation. Results from the analysis of both quantitative and the qualitative data suggests that numbers matter because it contributes to the perception that women have the skills, abilities, and interests to succeed in engineering.