ChemDiverse: A Chemistry Careers Activity Showcasing Diversity

Abstract

Women, ethnic minority, and less affluent groups are widely underrepresented in chemistry, a problem that is observed at all levels but begins before college matriculation takes place. The importance of representation and humanization of scientists is crucial. Despite limited progress over recent decades, poor visibility of role models from underrepresented groups remains problematic, emphasizing the importance of initiatives to positively introduce them in classroom settings. Through profiles of underrepresented “success stories” from academia and industry, the ChemDiverse project was developed to encourage underrepresented groups to pursue the chemical sciences at higher education levels by providing teachers with an easy and structured way of encouraging Scottish high school students into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Based on survey feedback from teachers at participating schools, it is a well-formulated project that is easy to implement within the context of the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence.