SET Fair? Progress in the U.K.

Abstract

Since the First IUPAP International Conference on Women in Physics (Paris, 2002), there have been numerous developments for women in physics within the UK. The main thrust has been from the UK Institute of Physics, whose initiatives have been in parallel with national progress for women in science, engineering, and technology (SET). The Institute is seen as being at the forefront of developments within the UK professional bodies. The question is posed whether we are close to a position where SET is "fair" for women in physics.Within a month of the First IUPAP International Conference on Women in Physics, the Robert's Report, SET for Success, was published in April 2002 [1]. The report identified a downward trend in the total number studying mathematics, engineering, and the physical sciences, indicating a future shortage of SET (science, engineering, and technology) graduates. A shortage of girls choosing to study these subjects at A-level was also highlighted. Encouraging girls in these subjects would therefore reduce the skills shortage.Following the release of SET for Success, Baroness Susan Greenfield, Director of the Royal Institution of Great Britain, was asked to advise on what could be done to improve the recruitment and retention of women in SET, increase the number of women in policy making, and recognize women's achievement and contribution to SET. Working parties involving members of the UK Institute of Physics identified issues and barriers for women at all levels. The resulting report, SET FAIR (November 2002), recommended a science resource center to provide an infrastructure for women in SET organizations and initiatives; pump-priming schemes for networking, mentoring and returners' schemes; improved statistical monitoring; a part-time/job-sharing incentive program; a program for "high flyers," and more [2].In April 2003 the government responded with A Strategy for Women in Science, Engineering and Technology [3], which, according to Patricia Hewitt, a government minister: "Aims to build on the existing work of the many dedicated women and women's groups, who have tirelessly worked to improve the position of women in science, to mainstream these issues and bring about real and lasting change. The impact of this change will go beyond those women working in science, or aspiring to work in science, to help create a more inclusive science, for the benefit of the economy and society as a whole."The report drew support from then-recent measures to secure gender equality, particularly the government's new Gender Equality Action Plan aimed equally at academia, industry, and public service.The UK Resource Centre for Women in Science, Engineering, Technology and Construction (UKRC; www.setwomenresource.org.uk) opened its doors in March 2005. It has government funding for three years (2004)(2005)(2006)(2007) and, with core objectives as recommended by Baroness Greenfield, it will map, coordinate, and build on good practice initiatives and provide a strategic focus for the UK women and SET agenda (i.e., the a...

Attracting Girls Into Physics

“…Members of the Women in Physics Group in the UK described their very successful national network and the UK Institute of Physics programs to develop and distribute educational materials for physics teachers and outreach [3]. Several examples of activities that are currently in place around the world were discussed.…”