BoxLab: A Comparison of Brand Experiences for STEM Toys and Their Influence on Gender
Date
2020-12
Authors
Brown, Kimberly Michelle
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Abstract
Strides have been made to make STEM inclusive, however the gender gap is still
significant. The added attention given to STEM-related fields has not only increased
consumer awareness, but also assisted in the growth of a multi-billion-dollar STEM toy
industry. But are these products effective in curbing the STEM gender gap or are retailers
utilizing tactics that perpetuate the status quo? This research will explore design trends
among STEM toys through observational studies to better understand what attracts female participation, and as a result proposes an open-ended learning opportunity while removing outdated traditional gender stereotypes.
Description
Keywords
STEM, Gender gap, Education, Toys, Gender
Citation
Brown, K. M. (2020). <i>BoxLab: A comparison of brand experiences for STEM toys and their influence on gender</i> (Unpublished thesis). Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.