I agree with Sheril that the list of scientists is limited. I like what they are trying to do, but I wonder, too if saying “this is for girls” does continue to maintain the gender division.

I think it would be better to have women role models that both boys and girls can look up to, and not that “this is a women speaking, and so only girls should be watching.”

I consider how all major TV networks and science programs primarily show men articulating science. We are left with a subliminal message that women can’t or don’t articulate science. It’d be nice to see female versions of Bill Nye or Carl Sagan. And not just a woman presenting science like a third grade teacher. I would love to see wonderful powerful female personas that would demonstrate that women are truly active in science. The shows wouldn’t have to be aimed at girls only, it would be for all, but the important message would be there: It is great for women to be in science.

And one day the networks will wake up and realize they might want to do the right thing….

This has been posted elsewhere.

I of course promote encouraging women in science, but to do it in pink turns me away immediately.

Of course, to ultimately narrow the gender gap in academia, the system must fundamentally change.

For example, UIUC runs a great competition (sponsored by Google) in computer science called Games 4 Girls, which requires an all-girl team to make a game for middle school girls. That in itself is great. However, the program often dictates the theme that the game must have. Last year (I think) it was a dating game. This completely turned off my crack team of female programmers, many of whom have gone on to grad school or successful industry jobs.

That is what I mean by stereotypes.

I have heard similar murmurings from talented female undergraduates about the these middle school outreach programs also perpetuate stereotypes. But then again, that might just be a biased sampling in the type of women that do well in my male-heavy department.

So I honestly cannot tell.