Do Female Role Models Reduce the Gender Gap in Science? Evidence from French High Schools

Abstract

We show in a large-scale field experiment that a brief exposure to female role models working in scientific fields affects high school students’ perceptions and choice of undergraduate major. While the classroom interventions generally reduce the prevalence of stereotypical views on jobs in science and gender differences in abilities, the effects on educational choices are concentrated among high-achieving girls in Grade 12. They are more likely to enroll in selective and male-dominated STEM programs in college. The most effective role model interventions are those that improved students’ perceptions of STEM careers without overemphasizing women’s underrepresentation in science.