Addressing gender inequality in science: the multifaceted challenge of assessing impact

Abstract

The analysis of the reasons behind the persistent underrepresentation of women in senior positions in science is well-developed. In contrast, the assessment of the impact of policies addressing the problem suffers from a lack of evidence and an oversimplification of approaches. Based on the assessment of 125 programs for gender equality implemented in research organisations in Europe, North America and Australia, we argue that holistic approaches and multidimensional frames of reference are needed for impact assessment, also to improve program design and policy. Our analysis shows that the problem of gender inequality is rooted in so many and interrelated factors that program impact assessment has to be multidimensional and complex. Having a conceptual approach grounded in the notion of complexity as a point of departure, the paper presents an innovative impact assessment tool, pointing to effective ways to assess the impact of gender equality programs.

Markers of achievement for assessing and monitoring gender equity in a UK National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre: A two-factor model

“…Our study compliments the existing literature on gender equity in universities by contributing a context-specific perspective on NIHR BRCs—partnerships between universities and NHS organisations. In doing so, our study contributes to the growing body of literature recognising the complexity of factors producing gender inequality and the importance of context-specific interventions for different categories of staff [ 36 – 40 ] Under the complexity approach, addressing gender inequality requires multiple areas of intervention with a focus on the local context and dynamics [ 40 – 42 ]. Therefore, context-specific GE markers can help to identify areas for improvement, plan interventions, and monitor progress against the goals and strategic objectives for different categories of staff.…”

Structural Transformation to Attain Responsible BIOSciences (STARBIOS2): Protocol for a Horizon 2020 Funded European Multicenter Project to Promote Responsible Research and Innovation (Preprint)

“…The concept of structural change is akin to the concept of institutional transformation [18] as both are based on the assumption that, in some cases or under given circumstances, the pursuit of new objectives requires pervasive, intensive and far reaching changes of the fundamental organisational processes, set-up and values [19]. Based on the experience of gender equality policies in science and technology [20][21][22][23][24][25], structural change is often characterised by four main features:…”

Evaluating gender equality effects in research and innovation systems

“…At the same time, establishing causal relationships between policy interventions and observed effects poses a theoretical challenge, and entails empirical and methodological problems, as linear relations between interventions and impacts are difficult to identify (Halpern 2014;Reale et al 2017). As regards the effects of gender equality policies, scholars call attention to the lack of studies and evidence, and the simplification of approaches in impact assessment of policies (Timmers et al 2010; Kalpazidou Schmidt and Cacace 2017).…”