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IPS215 Elizabeth S. et al.
females were more likely to select better preparation for exams and to improve
grades, without having a longer term goal in terms of career prospects.
Improving the views of what is meant by a capable mathematician or
statistician could encourage more females to study mathematics and statistics
subjects and participate more in STEM based careers with a mathematics
focus. Gender equity should try to make female participation in mathematics
a priority by changing the views of a male dominated area. Improved support
from mentors such as teachers and parents may help counteract what appears
to still be a male dominated field in order to encourage girls to feel confident
and less anxious to succeed in mathematics areas. This could also have
implications for national policies to offer incentives to help promote female
participation in STEM male dominated areas via secondary school teachers
potentially redesigning courses and assessments to help promote female
student participation and confidence as well as initiatives aimed at parents as
they also influence student career paths, while also addressing the shortage
of females in these areas.

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