The Problem:
Female students in western society are underrepresented in STEM academics and the STEM workforce. However, research shows that compared to adolescent males, females receive high grades in science and maths, contributing to a higher grade point average. These results are partly due to the high school cultural setting. However, by middle school, more than twice as many boys than girls intend to work in science or engineering-related jobs. Girls continuously face challenges, including harassment, hegemonic masculinity, and gender bias from students and teachers, deterring them from particular work pathways. This can be particularly challenging as females are surrounded by an environment segregating males and females.
The Idea:
The Idea through speculative design is for Bilancia to be an example of how chemistry can provide a platform for equal gender opportunity
The Execution:
Students are given the opportunity to learn through multiple learning techniques the connection between chemistry and music. With music basic and chemistry basic, students will learn the fundamental building blocks to convert music into chemistry and vice versa. “ Chemical elements in chemistry and musical notes in music; both have time dimensions that are meaningful, and both find expression in the language of mathematics. The example exercises reactions and compounds and allows students to test, play and experiment. This creates an interactive and fun learning environment for students.
