Girls perform worse than boys in economics during their school years, according to a large-scale study by the University of Tübingen in Germany, reported dpa.
The study, which involved nearly 2,000 pupils aged 15 and 16, found that girls scored on average 13% lower than boys in tests.
This corresponds to a learning gap of almost three-quarters of a school year, explained study author Lucy Haag.
In the tests, boys answered more than eight out of 12 questions correctly on average, covering topics such as inflation and interest rate calculations.
Girls, on the other hand, answered fewer than seven questions correctly. Researchers cited lower mathematical skills and less interest in economic topics among girls as the main reasons for this disparity.
"The differences are already evident at a young age: This is exactly where we need to intervene," said study leader Taiga Brahm.
"If we could ensure that girls and boys leave school with the same level of knowledge and that economics remains a topic women engage with throughout their lives, it would have an impact."
Researchers worry that the consequences of this knowledge gap could be significant. Those with less understanding of financial matters could be less likely to save, invest later in life, and prepare adequately for retirement.
To address the problem, the study authors propose targeted measures in the classroom. These include role-playing, practical projects, and incorporating female role models into economics textbooks and lessons to better motivate girls and boost their confidence.
The study surveyed pupils from 92 schools that offer economics as a subject in the south-western German state of Baden-Württemberg.
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
