I am a scientist: Overcoming biased assumptions around diversity in science through explicit representation of scientists in lectures

What is it about?

When surveyed during lectures, more than 50% of students assumed the authors of a scientific paper were male and Western. This is evidence of a bias that is the result of long-term exposure to formal educational materials and wider media that underrepresent the diversity of scientists. It is possible for educators to help address this kind of underlying bias by ‘humanising’ the scientists presented in educational materials. This process includes presenting the full names and photographs of authors of scientific research covered in the educational materials, and not just including the referencing information. We also encourage all educators to use this process to reflect on how we present the diversity of the fields we work within to students.

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Photo by Sam Balye on Unsplash

Photo by Sam Balye on Unsplash

Why is it important?

There are few empirically supported ways for educators to actively engage in raising diversity awareness in their teaching. This study provides evidence for a simple intervention that can be implemented by anyone who wants to be part of the solution.