Gender differences in academic performance of students studying Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects at the University of Ghana

Using a mixed-methods research design, this study compares academic performance of males and females studying STEM subjects or courses at the university level with that of the senior high school level performance. The factors contributing to the gender differences in academic performance at the two levels of the educational ladder were also explored. Overall, the results show that the academic performance of males was better than females at the senior high school level, whilst at the tertiary level, the academic performance of females appeared to have improved relative to that of males. Whilst gender stereotypes contributed greatly to differences in academic performance at the high school level, factors such as teaching methodologies and styles, motivation and support from parents, and advocacy campaigns on women’s empowerment accounted for the improved academic performance of females at the tertiary levels. On the other hand, males’ engagements in extra-curricular activities and other economic ventures, which are also linked to broader socio-economic influences such as economic hardship, financial constraints, and gendered ideologies tend to affect the academic performance of males at that level. We recommend that whilst emphasis is placed on getting more females in STEM disciplines and careers, it is equally important to focus on males. This requires continuous education and sensitisation of gender stereotypes and policy measures to sustain both males and females in STEM for overall national development.