Gender Differences in Math? Yes and No.

  

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Two reports this month seem to support that idea that, yes, there are gender differences in math performance, and no, those performance differences aren't related to any genetic differences between men and women. In early January researchers who examined TIMSS and PISA data reported little worldwide gender difference in math ability. However, the study did find differences in select nations, particularly those that had few female role models in research and math-associated positions. Another study released this week supports the importance of role models and self-fulfilling expectations. A group from the University of Chicago reported that female elementary teachers' personal anxiety about math transferred to their female students. Girls, it seems, do worse in math when they are expected to do worse. That's a problem we can and should correct, but it will take a big attitude shift. Let's get on it!

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