Research Finds Disparity in Economic Knowledge Between Females and Males
In a significant finding, a study conducted by the University of Tübingen has highlighted a performance gap between boys and girls in economic knowledge, with boys exhibiting more confidence in the subject. The study, which involved nearly 2,000 tenth-grade students from various schools in Baden-Württemberg, found that, on average, girls perform worse in economic knowledge tests by 13 percent.
The study did not delve into the potential reasons why boys tend to have more self-assurance in economics, focusing instead on the performance gap and possible solutions. Lucy Haag, the study's lead researcher, explained the consequences of the knowledge gap. If girls and boys leave school with equal economic knowledge, it could make a significant difference, according to Haag.
The study leader, Taiga Brahm, emphasized the need to intervene early to counteract the knowledge gap. Researchers suggest measures in teaching to increase girls' motivation and confidence in economics include connecting economic content to real-life and socially relevant topics, using interactive and relatable teaching materials, and promoting early exposure to economic and STEM-related fields to build interest and self-efficacy. Encouraging supportive environments and addressing gender stereotypes also help strengthen girls' trust in their abilities.
Lucy Haag further suggests targeted measures in the classroom to boost girls' confidence, such as role-playing, practical projects, and the inclusion of female role models in textbooks and lessons. The students in the study were, on average, 15.5 years old, and at this age, boys already perform significantly better. This performance gap is equivalent to a deficit of almost three-quarters of a school year.
The researchers attribute the performance gap to lower mathematical skills and less interest in economic topics among girls. However, students answered more than eight out of twelve questions on topics like inflation and calculating interest correctly. The study did not explore the long-term effects of the knowledge gap on girls' financial behaviors, but previous research has shown that understanding less about money tends to lead to saving less, investing less, and less retirement planning.
The study did not investigate the impact of the knowledge gap on boys' financial behaviors or their long-term financial outcomes. Nevertheless, it is crucial to ensure that girls and boys leave school with the same level of economic knowledge to encourage women's engagement with the subject in life. Taiga Brahm, another researcher, emphasizes this importance, stating that it would help bridge the gender gap in economic participation and decision-making.
The study surveyed and tested students from 92 grammar schools, comprehensive schools, and secondary schools in Baden-Württemberg that offer the subject of economics. Despite the low number of questions answered correctly, the study's findings suggest that targeted interventions in the classroom could help close the performance gap between boys and girls in economic knowledge tests.
