AGENTS FOR CHANGE - POLICY AND PRACTICE TOWARDS A MORE GENDER-INCLUSIVE SCIENCE-EDUCATION

A range of initiatives aimed at a more gender-inclusive science curriculum has developed in many countries. In this paper five countries are used to illustrate these developments. They have occurred usually in the context of relevant policy statements, but sometimes in the absence of a policy, through activists, often outside the school system. At times policies developed within the education system act in opposition to a change towards greater gender equity in science education. However, when policies are in place and made visible, and where feedback and adequate monitoring are required change has occurred. The successful incorporation of gender equity awareness and practices into the professional role and practice of teachers requires adequate resources to support change.