Pretending to be scientists boosts girls’ interest in science

Published on October 1, 2022

Children, like adults, can benefit from putting on a role. A recent study found that when first-grade girls pretend to be renowned scientist Marie Curie, they are more likely to persist at a challenging science game. This suggests that engaging young girls in gender-matched science role-playing activities can help narrow the gender gap in science and encourage their identification as future scientists. It’s like when you dress up as your favorite superhero and feel inspired to take on the world! This research highlights the importance of fostering a sense of identity and belonging in STEM fields during early childhood. By providing young girls with opportunities to immerse themselves in scientific roles, we can ignite their curiosity and empower them to pursue careers in STEM. So go ahead, encourage your little ones to put on their lab coats and goggles, and set their imaginations free into the world of science!

Fake it until you make is true for children, too, it turns out: Young girls playing the role of a successful female scientist, like Marie Curie, persist longer at a challenging science game. The new study suggests that gender-matched science role-playing may help tighten the gender gap in science and related careers for women by improving their identity as scientists.

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