SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING GENDER DISPARITIES IN ENROLMENT AND COMPLETION RATES OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS COURSES IN SELECTED PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES, KENYA

Abstract

In Kenyan public universities, female students consistently have lower enrollment and completion rates in STEM disciplines compared to their male counterparts. This gender imbalance in the STEM labor force is a significant concern. This research sought to explore the gender disparities in enrollment and completion rates in STEM courses and the socio economic factors that influence these trends. The study's specific objectives were to: determine the gender distribution of students in STEM programs, analyze gendered differences in completion rates, and evaluate the impact of family support, social stereotypes, and career self-efficacy on these metrics. A mixed-methods research design was employed, giving equal weight to both qualitative and quantitative data. The study population consisted of students, faculty deans, department chairs, and student deans from selected public universities. A stratified random sample of 384 students was used, while key informants were chosen through purposive sampling. The results reveal a high number of students enrolling in and completing STEM programs in Kenya. Nevertheless, a clear gender difference in enrollment exists, with male students comprising a larger percentage. Interestingly, no significant difference in completion rates based on gender was identified. The research also found that family support is a critical factor for students' success in STEM. Furthermore, while career self-efficacy positively influences enrollment and completion, social stereotypes present a continuous challenge to both male and female students. The study recommends developing policies to combat negative gender stereotypes in STEM education and increasing efforts to promote female participation. Additionally, parents and guardians should be made aware of the importance of providing academic support to their children.