Determinants of girls' participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in public senior high schools in the Hohoe Municipality

Abstract

Global statistics show that women are outnumbered by men in STEM activities, which has been the case for many centuries. More women than men drop out of science fields during studies or careers. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to examine the factors that influence students’ choice of STEM programs in the Hohoe Municipality. The study is quantitative, and the descriptive survey design was employed. A random sampling technique was used to select STEM students for the study. Factor analysis was conducted to ascertain the factors influencing students’ choice of STEM courses. Teachers’ attitude towards girls in STEM programs is related to STEM-related courses. Home-related and role model-related factors are determinants of STEM courses choice in the Hohoe Municipality. The study recommends that the government of Ghana should organise STEM clinics in selected districts in Ghana to sensitise girls to various STEM-related careers that girls can pursue (e.g. teaching, medicine, laboratory work, or telecommunications engineering). STEM clinics have a strong potential for increasing girls’ interest in science. This will help girls have a unique opportunity to interact with young female scientists and learn from the wide range of opportunities offered by studying STEM subjects