Mexican-American women and mathematics: Participation, aspirations, and achievement

Concern over the declining technological advantage of the United States has focused attention upon the fundamental math and science training provided by schools. Although basic preparation in math and science for all students needs improvement, the performance of several social groups is especially problematic. Insofar as girls and most minority students are less well prepared in mathematics, their access to higher education, particularly in science, mathematics, engineering, and other technical fields, is severely limited. Society suffers from an inability to utilize the potential of these youth and from increasing economic disparities between members of different racial, ethnic, and gender groups. The crucial issue is identification of the factors that discourage female and minority students from obtaining adequate preparation in mathematics.