opinions about what is expected of women. If girls observe that women hold positions of less status then men in society, it may lead girls to infer that their role is less important than that of boys or that they are inferior to boys. Rothenberg (1995) found that a general loss of self-esteem in preadolescent girls added to a decline in academic achievement. To eliminate the decline of academic achievement teachers need to encourage girls to enroll and participate in all academic courses, especially science and math, and see that their contributions are valued in the classroom. Dickman (1993) provided some strategies faculty could use to encourage women to participate more in the classroom and to enhance their confidence in themselves and their abilities: *make eye contact with all students*increase "wait time"; call on a student only when hands are raised from both genders*eliminate sexist language and avoid using the generic "he"*intervene in communication patterns among students that may shut out women ( e.g. male students interrupting female students in class discussions.As a female growing up in the 60's I am interested in changes in society and education concerning gender issues. This paper started a thought process that is visible in my teaching methods. I am now spending more time with all my students in the maths and sciences. I want to 5encourage all students to enter professional fields. I have begun to ask them what do they want to be when they grow up. Talking to other teachers, I am finding that not many teachers are asking this question. I have come to the conclusion that all children need to be challenged. They also need to be considerate and value each others abilities.6 REFERENCESChilds,R.(12/90).Genderbias and fairness. ERIC Clearinghouse on Tests Measurement and Evaluation Washington DC., American Institutes for Research Washington DC. [http://www.ed.gov/da...
