| Synopsis: |
'Editors Ron Burke and Mary Mattis have brought us a truly comprehensive view of women and minorities in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) disciplines. Chapter authors are drawn from a range of disciplines and countries, presenting a multi-faceted approach to the issue and offering data not commonly available to the average researchers. Findings from actual programs provide "real world" experiences to leaven the solid academic research presented by the authors. Anyone wanting a single source to address theory, research, and practical guidelines to increasing participation of women and minorities in STEM should look to this volume.' - Jong-on Hahm, Center for Women's Leadership at George Washington University, US. 'Rarely do you find such a well-rounded collection of thoughts on the topic of women and minorities in engineering. This book is not only full of invaluable research, it's culturally insightful as well. A "must have" for those serious about the issue of diversity in engineering.'- Suzanne Jenniches, Vice President and General Manager, Government Systems Division, Northrop Grumman Corporation; President, Society of Women Engineers, 1988-1989; and Chair of the American Association of Engineering Societies, 2005. 'Women and Minorities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics is the definitive resource for anyone seeking to understand the numerous factors that impact diversity in STEM professions. Mary Mattis and Ronald Burke have organized the most meaningful statistics, research, and best practices into a comprehensive review of the challenges and opportunities to increase the participation of women in minorities in STEM. By making the complexity and pervasiveness of barriers to women and minorities apparent, Mattis and Burke help us recognize that we must implement solutions that encompass all stages in education, public images of the STEM professions and work place systems in industry and academia. Anyone who sincerely seeks to advance diversity in STEM will find this a priceless resource.' - Christina M. Vogt, National Academy of Engineering.Advances in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are key factors in contributing to future economic performance, higher living standards and improved quality of life. As dominant white males near retirement and immigration slows, developed countries face a serious skill shortage in critical STEM disciplines. This fascinating book examines why the numbers of women and minorities in STEM are low, outlines the potential consequences of this and prescribes much needed solutions to the problem. The contributors illustrate how women and minorities are subtly and actively discouraged from entering STEM educational programs and occupations, and how once there, face conditions that limit their ability to fully participate should they choose to. Solutions to this complex problem of wasted human talent are prescribed at several levels, beginning with the family and rising up through the educational system to organizational employers and through government-level initiatives. This highly original book will prove a stimulating read for both academics and practitioners interested in gender issues, workforce diversity, management and, of course, in STEM professions. |