In the ever-evolving landscape of education and the push for gender equality in STEAM fields, it is essential to recognize the individuals who are making significant contributions. One such remarkable individual is Dr. Rana Oubary, our very own physics teacher who has recently been published in the prestigious Journal of Teaching and Teacher Education. Her groundbreaking research sheds light on the underrepresentation of women in STEAM fields and explores the interactions of different genders in math and science classes from K-12.

The underrepresentation of women in STEAM studies and careers is a pressing issue with far-reaching consequences. While much attention has been given to addressing this disparity at the college level and in the workforce, Dr. Oubary's research focuses on the formative school years, specifically K-12 education. By investigating the differences in achievement and curriculum interaction between male and female students, Dr. Oubary aims to uncover the deep-seated reasons behind the gender disparity that persists later in life.

To contribute to the body of knowledge about education in the Arab world, Dr. Oubary conducted her research in an American-based curriculum school in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Her study employed an exploratory case study approach, drawing upon the leaky STEAM pipeline theory and the transformational leadership theory. Through classroom observations, interviews with teachers, and document reviews, she gathered qualitative data to gain insights into students' experiences.

The study's findings highlight the importance of tailored instruction for female students to foster their interest in STEAM subjects. Dr. Oubary emphasizes that the underrepresentation of women in STEAM fields, both as researchers and participants, leads to a range of problems, such as the lack of women-friendly policies, technology developed without considering women's needs, and understudied disease warning signs. To address this issue, Dr. Oubary suggests differentiated instructions that cater to the learning preferences of female students, ultimately aiming to increase their engagement and interest in STEAM.

Dr. Rana Oubary's groundbreaking research serves as an inspiration and a call to action for educators, policymakers, and society as a whole. By promoting equal educational opportunities and fostering inclusive STEAM classrooms, we can pave the way for a future where both genders are equally represented in the STEAM workforce. It is through the dedication and commitment of pioneering educators like Dr. Oubary that we can strive for true gender equity in STEAM education and beyond.

Want to read her publication? Click here.