Keywords
technical university
STEM
Gender Equality Plan
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Abstract
The article aims to identify the main problems related to gender-based equal treatment experienced by students at a technical university, as well as to present selected solutions supporting equal treatment policies at such institutions. In the analysis, we draw on the concept of three patterns of anti-discrimination policies within universities and science, namely policies targeting structures (Fix the Numbers), knowledge (Fix the Knowledge) and institutions (Fix the Institution). In this article, we rely on the results of a study that was conducted in 2021 as part of the implementation of the Gender Equality Plan. The basis for data collection was methodological triangulation; we conducted both individual in-depth interviews (IDI) and group interviews, as well as surveys among people studying and working at technical university. A total of 3,438 students participated in the quantitative survey, including doctoral candidates and students of the Doctoral School (including 43% women). The results of the study showed that gender-based unequal treatment at a technical university is multidimensional, while a key barrier remains the low effectiveness of existing response mechanisms, which reinforces fears of reporting abuses and encourages avoidance strategies. The student community most strongly supports solutions aligned with the ‘Fix the Institution’ approach, including improved procedures, independent reporting channels, a code of conduct, and psychological support, while expressing reluctance toward parity-based measures. The results point to the need to combine institutional reforms with equality-oriented education and modifications to teaching practices.
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