Written by: Alexander Dominguez, Lead Writer for EnvisionSTEM
Diverse perspectives are essential to the development of new ideas and inventions. However, the United States and most other nations have a poor history when it comes to including minorities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields. Minorities hold only 30% of STEM jobs, and they're heavily underrepresented in STEM education. Innovation is hindered when underrepresented minorities are absent from the development process.
Historically, minorities have faced obstacles in pursuing degrees in STEM fields. For example, black students are less likely to pursue computer science than white students. In addition, immigrant children face additional racism due to their skin color because they look foreign to many, they encounter racial discrimination that non-immigrant children do not. Additionally, people with disabilities face additional barriers because they have less access to assistive technology that supports their studies. To overcome these challenges, some have advocated for affirmative action policies and scholarships for underrepresented minorities in STEM education.
Proponents of diversifying the study of STEM in America urge educators to focus on reaching all students regardless of race. This approach is more effective than affirmative action programs because it aims to intentionally include all students in educational programs without regard to race. In addition, teachers should demonstrate respect for all students regardless of race. Doing so demonstrates that all students will receive an equivalent education regardless of race and encourages all students to succeed. Focusing on supporting underrepresented minorities also encourages minority parents to ensure their children receive an equal opportunity at success in these fields.
To accomplish a truly equitable STEM education will require concerted effort by all involved: educators, parents and political leaders. The major challenge is creating an environment that supports all students regardless of race or background in times when minority groups face discrimination daily. Implementing desegregated schools during the Jim Crow period was a major step toward creating a more equitable environment for African Americans. Today, we must strive to create the same type of social consciousness toward achieving a truly equitable educational system for all students regardless of race or background.
Despite being technologically advanced, America falls woefully behind other nations when it comes to identifying and developing its intellectual capital. Diversifying the study of mathematics and science is crucial for bridging this gap, as is working towards a truly equitable educational system for all students regardless of race or background.
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