THE GENDERED HIDDEN CURRICULUM IN STEM SUBJECTS. INSIGHTS FROM A SCHOOL FOR GIFTED STUDENTS IN KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education is crucial for a country’s prosperity, as it is the foundation for innovation, economic growth, and social development. However, there is a shortage of STEM workers, and the underrepresentation of women and girls in STEM fields is a significant issue. Schools have a crucial role to play in addressing this issue by providing students with the necessary information and nurturing the required abilities in academic subjects, particularly in STEM. Although the official curriculum is considered gender-neutral, schools also transmit explicit and implicit messages through the hidden curriculum on what constitutes appropriate gender-role behaviour and attitudes....