Aspire2Inspire Study: Black Ladies in Engineering (82676)
Session Chair: Jimena Hernandez-Fernandez
Sunday, 14 July 2024 15:00
Session: Session 4
Room: B09 (Basement)
Presentation Type:Oral Presentation
According to a report by BBSTEM, only 6.2% of UK domicile students enrolled onto Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-related subjects at UK universities identify as black or mixed-black heritage and when we delve into figures for employees in the engineering sector specifically for black women, this number dwindles to less than 1%[1]. There is clear evidence of a pipeline issue and a poor uptake of black girls remaining in STEM in higher education and beyond. Studies have shown that there are a number of factors that contribute to this, notably one being representation. This longitudinal study looks to use a combination of interviews, focus groups and overt observation of academic interest and performance of black females in schools, university and industry to further understand the factors that influence attainment and retention in field. The study begins with the department of Biochemical Engineering, University College London (UCL), where there are a total of 7 black female students in the entire student population (total approx. 500 students). The semi-structured interviews and focus groups have been designed to discuss influences, challenges, successes, background, culture and a number of literature-based factors that contribute towards inspiring young black girls into Engineering. Subsequent stages in the study include application of this methodology across the faculty of Engineering (and other STEM departments), observations and reports from school visits and interviews with black females working in the sector. This study aims to inform Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy in STEM at UCL with particular focus on Widening-Participation.
Authors:
Mauryn Nweke, University College London, United Kingdom
About the Presenter(s)
Dr Mauryn Nweke is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at University College London in United Kingdom
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