Maker & STEM Education: Equal access to progressive pedagogies to boost STEM development for all women

Project

01.12.2024 - 30.11.2026

School of Computing, Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology

Information People

Funders

The project “Maker@Women-STEM” aims to address the gender gap in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, particularly in Latin America, where women are underrepresented.
Despite the increasing entry rate of women into universities, they face higher dropout rates and lower representation in STEM careers due to discrimination, stereotypes, and lack of support.
The project emphasizes the use of Maker education, which focuses on hands-on, project-based learning to empower women with essential skills for success in STEM disciplines.
The project includes hands-on, project-based learning, collaboration, and the use of digital tools to foster creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking among women in STEM fields.

Create a Framework: pedagogical strategies framework based on Maker education to support women’s success in STEM disciplines.

Create an ecosystem of microcredentials: to validate the training of at least 500 women as mentors in the Maker@Women-STEM.

Develop Training Actions: Implement workshops and courses using the Maker@Women-STEM methodology.
Train Mentors: Train women as mentors in the Maker@Women-STEM methodology.
Foster International Collaboration: Establish international networks of researchers to share knowledge, strategies, and results of Maker@Women-STEM.

Project Management: Establish governance structures and manage the project efficiently.
Framework Development: Create a reference framework for Maker education tailored to women’s needs in STEM.
Mentor Training and Certification: Develop instructional designs, materials, and a micro-credential system to certify women as mentors in the Maker@Women-STEM methodology.
Implementation and Impact Measurement: Conduct training actions, implement courses and workshops, and evaluate their impact on women’s STEM skills and career prospects.
Dissemination and Research Network: Share project results, generate knowledge through publications and conferences, and establish a research network.