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Assessing gender disparities and variability in STEM education using subject scores

Vhutshilo Nekhubvi ORCID ↗ · Vuledzani Makhoshi ORCID ↗ · Vhutshilo Molaudzi ORCID ↗ · Thakhani Ravele · Ndivhuwo Ndou · Rendani Netshikweta

International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science · 2025 · Vol. 14 / Issue 2 · 352-364

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Overview

Abstract

The study claims that gender greatly affects STEM performance, with one gender continuously outperforming another, which may influence instructors' methods. One gender's performance ratings vary more than the other, suggesting STEM academic success is inconsistent. We collected data using varied methodologies. STEM enrolment and performance data were evaluated using Python statistical analysis programs with mean, median, and variability evaluations, and boxplots, pie charts, and bar charts were shown. This study found that (i) STEM qualifications have significant enrolment disparities, with Extended BSc Biochemistry and Microbiology being the most popular and Extended BSc Mathematics and Statistics being the least, and (ii) curriculum attractiveness and employment prospects strongly influence student selections. Female students excelled in Biology, Chemistry, and English, while male students excelled in IT and Mathematics. Finally, informed policy formulation and curriculum development are needed to improve STEM student engagement and achievement across genders.

Keywords: {'name': 'STEM'}, {'name': 'IT'}, {'name': 'physics'}, {'name': 'mathematics'}, {'name': 'English'}

Authors & affiliations

Vhutshilo Nekhubvi
Affiliation not supplied

Vuledzani Makhoshi
Affiliation not supplied

Vhutshilo Molaudzi
Affiliation not supplied

Thakhani Ravele
Affiliation not supplied

Ndivhuwo Ndou
Affiliation not supplied

Rendani Netshikweta
Affiliation not supplied

Deposited references

Supplied references, not a list of publications citing this article.

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