News

Australia’s gender gap ranks worst in the world for STEM students

Australia came last on a list of 58 countries participating in an international math and science skills test for having the biggest gender gap.

According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS), grade 4 and grade 8 boys outperformed girls in both subjects.

Stay up-to-date on the latest news with The National Briefing – keeping you in the loop with news as it hits:

The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study is conducted every four years.

Until 2012, there was little or no gap between girls and boys in maths.

Glenn Fahey from the Centre for Independent Studies told ABC “In some respect, the chase toward gender equity in STEM and especially in maths has been an expensive and counterproductive venture.”

This is the first TIMSS test where Australia has had a gender gap across both subjects and year levels.

“What would benefit school systems most is to master foundations early in school for all students.” 

Subscribe to The Briefing, Australia’s fastest-growing news podcast on Listnr today. The Briefing serves up the latest news headlines and a deep dive into a topic affecting you. All in under 20 minutes.

Jade Murray

Recent Posts

Anthony Albanese condemns “deliberate” attack on Melbourne synagogue

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned the attack on a Melbourne synagogue on Friday morning.…

17 mins ago

Woolworths to face Fair Work hearing as strike enters 16th day

The Fair Work Commission will today hear Woolworths’ application to end picketing at four major…

1 hour ago

Melbourne billionaire Adrian Portelli charged over unlawful lottery

Melbourne billionaire Adrian Portelli will face court in South Australia early next year after being…

3 hours ago

Peter Dutton on track for major election win

New polling shows Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has a strong chance of defeating Prime Minister…

4 hours ago

Fifi Spills On The Dancing With The Stars Incident

On the latest ep of Fifi's In-box, Fifi opens up about her time on Dancing…

20 hours ago

Bitcoin passes US$100,000, fueled by Trump promise

Bitcoin has surged past US$100,000 for the first time, stoked by post-US election hopes that…

20 hours ago