Digitalisation as an Opportunity for Women in STEM: Researching the Nexus of School, University and Labour Market

In Germany, women are still dramatically underrepresented in the fields of STEM, especially in engineering: less than 25 percent of engineering students are female. Correspondingly underrepresented are women in engineering positions, too. Research has shown that diversity in the work force is crucial to develop successful solutions for a complex and sustainability-oriented world. Therefore, our ongoing research project (01FP22M01), funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), focusses on the underrepresentation of women in STEM, especially in mechanical and plant engineering. Using mixed methods of qualitative interviews and quantitative online surveys with female pupils, students and employees, as well as industry representatives, to create a comprehensive and multi-perspective picture of the conditions of engineering education and jobs. Thus, we can show what enables or hinders the recruitment, networking and initiative of women in engineering. This practice paper therefore highlights the environment of engineering education and professional formation along the life course and the application of educational concepts in the light of digitalisation. However, because the research project is currently at the stage of implementing the survey and interviews, first empirical results are not yet available. Therefore, this paper will present the research project’s background, the methodological approach and nonetheless focus on digitalisation and conceputalises how to shed light on the use of digital technologies in engineering education and professional development throughout careers.