What makes you most frustrated about the current state of gender representation in higher education?
- The pace of change is frustratingly slow! We still have a long way to go.
- It’s disheartening to see persistent pay disparities and biases in hiring.
- The lack of support for women, especially mothers, pursuing academic careers is concerning.
- The underrepresentation of women in leadership positions is a major issue.
What happened in the past when women first sought to enter higher education?
- They faced significant resistance and discrimination.
- It marked a turning point in societal views on women’s roles.
- Many courageous women challenged traditional norms and paved the way for future generations.
- Institutions slowly began to open their doors, albeit with reservations.
If you could wave a magic wand, what would the perfect outcome for women in academia be?
- True gender equality, where women and men have equal opportunities and recognition.
- A system that values and supports diverse perspectives and contributions.
- An end to bias and discrimination in all its forms.
- A future where young girls see limitless possibilities for themselves in academia.
What comes to mind when you think about the arguments presented for women’s equality in this report?
- It’s inspiring to see how far we’ve come in the fight for gender equality.
- There’s still work to be done, but the report offers hope for a more just future.
- The arguments are compelling and highlight the need for systemic change.
- It’s a reminder that progress requires constant vigilance and advocacy.
What’s your favorite anecdote from the report about women in higher education?
- The story of Christine Ladd-Franklin lecturing at a university closed to women highlights the absurdity of past prejudices.
- The case of Miss Gates, the talented physicist, showcases the immense potential of women researchers.
- The examples of successful women lecturers in the West offer a hopeful glimpse into a more equitable future.
You have a choice of attending a lecture by a renowned male professor or a rising female scholar in the same field. Who do you choose?
- I’m drawn to the opportunity to support and learn from emerging female voices in academia.
- The renowned professor’s reputation is enticing, but I value diversity in perspectives.
- I’d research both individuals further to make an informed decision based on their expertise.
A specific situation arises where a female colleague is being overlooked for a promotion despite her qualifications. How do you react?
- I speak up and advocate for my colleague, highlighting her accomplishments and qualifications.
- I offer my support and encouragement to my colleague, letting her know she’s not alone.
- I reflect on the situation and consider ways to address systemic bias within the institution.
What’s your favorite memory related to the topic of this quiz?
- Learning about a groundbreaking female scholar who inspired me.
- Witnessing a woman in my life achieve a significant academic milestone.
- A thought-provoking conversation about gender equality in education.
How would your friends and family describe your views on gender equality in education?
- As a staunch advocate for equal opportunities for all.
- Someone who is passionate about breaking down barriers.
- A firm believer in the power of education to create a more just society.
What causes are you most passionate about when it comes to higher education?
- Ensuring access and affordability for all students, regardless of background.
- Promoting diversity and inclusion within academic institutions.
- Supporting research and innovation that benefits society as a whole.
How do you feel about the progress that has been made for women in higher education?
- It’s encouraging, but there’s still a long way to go to achieve true equality.
- I’m inspired by the resilience and achievements of women in academia.
- While progress has been made, we can’t become complacent.
When you think about the topic of women in higher education, what are you most concerned about?
- The persistence of implicit bias and microaggressions in academic settings.
- The lack of support for women, particularly mothers, pursuing advanced degrees and careers.
- The underrepresentation of women in STEM fields.
What aspect of the progress made for women in higher education makes you the most happy?
- Seeing more women in leadership positions and as role models for younger generations.
- The increasing awareness and dialogue surrounding gender equality in academia.
- The growing body of research and scholarship produced by women.
In a perfect world, what would the experience be like for women pursuing careers in academia?
- They would be judged solely on their merit and contributions.
- They would have equal access to opportunities, resources, and support.
- They would be free to pursue their passions without facing discrimination or bias.
How often do you think about the challenges faced by women in higher education?
- Often, as it’s an issue I care deeply about.
- Occasionally, when I encounter news or stories related to the topic.
- Rarely, but I recognize its importance.
You are at a party, and someone makes a dismissive comment about women in academia. What do you do?
- I politely challenge their viewpoint, engaging in a respectful but firm conversation.
- I change the subject, not wanting to engage in a potentially uncomfortable situation.
- I share my own perspectives and experiences, highlighting the value of women in academia.
How comfortable are you discussing issues related to gender equality in higher education with colleagues?
- Very comfortable. It’s a topic I’m passionate about and believe is crucial to address.
- Somewhat comfortable, depending on the audience and context.
- Not very comfortable. I prefer to avoid potentially controversial topics.
You have a free afternoon to do whatever you want. What do you do?
- I attend a lecture or workshop on a topic related to gender equality in education.
- I read a book or article by a prominent female scholar.
- I spend time reflecting on my own experiences and beliefs related to the topic.
Which of these topics is most likely to be a struggle for you: work-life balance, imposter syndrome, or lack of mentorship?
- Work-life balance is a constant juggling act, especially in demanding academic settings.
- Imposter syndrome can be crippling, making it hard to own my accomplishments.
- Finding supportive mentors who understand my unique challenges is essential.
Someone asks, “How are things going in your academic journey?”. What’s the actual answer, not just a generic response?
- I’m facing some challenges, but I’m determined to persevere and make a meaningful contribution.
- It’s been an incredible journey of growth and discovery so far.
- I’m feeling optimistic about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.
What place do you most want to explore when it comes to promoting gender equality in higher education?
- The role of institutional policies and practices in creating a more equitable environment.
- The impact of implicit bias training on faculty and staff.
- The experiences of women of color in academia and how to better support their success.
What’s your idea of a truly supportive academic department for women?
- One that offers mentorship programs, flexible work arrangements, and resources for parents.
- A department that actively combats bias and promotes a culture of respect and inclusion.
- A place where women feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
What is your strongest quality when it comes to advocating for change in higher education?
- My ability to articulate my views clearly and persuasively.
- My passion for social justice and my commitment to creating a more equitable world.
- My willingness to listen to and learn from diverse perspectives.
Tell us a little about your view on the importance of women’s voices in shaping the future of academia?
- Women’s voices are essential for a more inclusive, innovative, and representative academic community.
- Their perspectives enrich research, teaching, and scholarship across all disciplines.
- It’s about creating a space where all voices are heard and valued.
If you could choose any trait to help further your career in academia, which one would you choose and why?
- Resilience, because academia is a marathon, not a sprint, and requires perseverance.
- Confidence, to overcome self-doubt and embrace opportunities.
- A strong support system, because no one succeeds alone.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the phrase “glass ceiling”?
- The invisible barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential in various fields.
- The need for continued advocacy and systemic change to shatter these barriers.
- The hope that future generations won’t face the same limitations.
What affects you the most: personal stories of women overcoming adversity in academia or statistical data on gender disparities?
- Personal stories have a powerful emotional impact and highlight the human cost of inequality.
- Statistics provide essential context and underscore the systemic nature of the problem.
- Both are important for raising awareness and inspiring action.
How prepared do you think institutions are to address the issue of gender bias in academia?
- Some institutions are making progress, but there’s still much work to be done.
- Many are ill-equipped to tackle deeply ingrained biases and systemic barriers.
- There’s a growing awareness, but translating that into meaningful change is key.
What do you think you need to become a more effective advocate for gender equality in higher education?
- More knowledge about the history and current state of the issue.
- A stronger network of like-minded individuals to collaborate with.
- The courage to speak out against injustice and challenge the status quo.
How often do you actively seek out information or engage in conversations about gender equality in academia?
- Regularly. I make it a priority to stay informed and engaged.
- Occasionally, when the opportunity arises or I’m reminded of its importance.
- Rarely. It’s not something I actively seek out.
How confident are you in your institution’s commitment to addressing gender disparities?
- I’m confident that my institution is taking meaningful steps toward equality.
- I have some reservations and would like to see more concrete action.
- I’m not very confident and believe significant changes are needed.
How do you handle situations where you witness or experience gender bias in an academic setting?
- I directly address the issue, calling out bias and advocating for fairness.
- I find it challenging to confront bias directly but try to find subtle ways to challenge it.
- I often feel unsure about how to respond effectively in the moment.
Do you have a mentor or role model who has supported your journey in academia?
- Yes, I’m fortunate to have a strong mentor who has provided invaluable guidance and support.
- I’ve had supportive individuals in my life, but not necessarily a formal mentor.
- I’m still searching for a mentor who can relate to my experiences and aspirations.
How well do you think you stick to your convictions when it comes to advocating for gender equality, even when it’s uncomfortable?
- I always strive to speak up for what I believe in, even in challenging situations.
- I find it easier to advocate when I have support from others.
- I sometimes struggle to find my voice when I’m afraid of negative consequences.
Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your understanding of the history of women in higher education?
- I have a solid understanding of the historical struggles and triumphs of women in academia.
- I’m familiar with some key historical figures and events but would like to learn more.
- I have limited knowledge about the history of women in higher education.
To what degree do you experience imposter syndrome in your academic pursuits?
- Frequently. I often doubt my abilities and feel like a fraud.
- Occasionally, especially when facing new challenges or setbacks.
- Rarely. I’m generally confident in my skills and accomplishments.
Which of these best describes your current level of engagement with initiatives promoting gender equality in your institution?
- I’m actively involved in organizations or committees dedicated to this issue.
- I support these initiatives but don’t have the bandwidth for active involvement.
- I’m not currently involved in such initiatives but am open to learning more.
What is your current biggest challenge related to succeeding in your academic field?
- Balancing the demands of research, teaching, and personal life.
- Overcoming self-doubt and building confidence in my abilities.
- Navigating a competitive and often isolating academic environment.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when faced with a setback or obstacle in your academic journey?
- Determination to persevere and find a way to overcome the challenge.
- Doubt and a sense of discouragement, wondering if I have what it takes.
- A desire to seek out support and guidance from mentors or peers.
How would you describe your relationship to the concept of mentorship, both as a mentee and a potential mentor?
- I believe deeply in the power of mentorship and actively seek out and offer guidance.
- I recognize its value but haven’t had extensive experience with formal mentorship.
- I’m still exploring what mentorship means to me and how it fits into my academic path.
Are you stuck in any thought patterns or behaviors that might be holding you back from fully embracing your potential in academia?
- Yes, I tend to be overly self-critical and struggle with perfectionism.
- I sometimes downplay my accomplishments and hesitate to put myself out there.
- I’m aware of the potential for self-sabotage and actively work on personal growth.
What would you say are your top struggles right now related to achieving your academic goals?
- Managing time effectively and prioritizing competing demands.
- Staying motivated and focused in the face of setbacks or rejections.
- Building a strong professional network and seeking out opportunities.
What is your ultimate career goal within your chosen field?
- To become a leading scholar and make groundbreaking contributions to my field.
- To inspire and educate future generations as a professor.
- To use my knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the world.
What do you think is missing in your current academic environment to better support the success of women?
- More visible female role models in leadership positions.
- Increased funding and resources for women-led research projects.
- A cultural shift that values and celebrates diverse perspectives.
What is your current level of expertise when it comes to navigating academic politics and power structures?
- I’m still learning the ropes but trying to be strategic and build alliances.
- I find academic politics to be a necessary evil and try to navigate them carefully.
- I prefer to focus on my research and teaching and avoid politics as much as possible.
A scenario arises where you have the opportunity to collaborate on a high-profile research project but sense potential gender bias from a collaborator. How do you respond?
- I express my concerns directly and seek to establish clear expectations for respectful collaboration.
- I proceed cautiously, observing the collaborator’s behavior closely before making a decision.
- I decline the opportunity, unwilling to compromise my values for the sake of career advancement.
What word do you experience most: Inspired, Overwhelmed, or Determined?
- Determined. I have a clear vision of what I want to achieve and won’t let anything stop me.
- Inspired. I’m constantly learning and growing, fueled by the work of those who came before me.
- Overwhelmed. The demands of academia can feel all-consuming at times.
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis: financial security, work-life balance, or competition in academia?
- Work-life balance. It’s a constant challenge to juggle academic responsibilities with personal life.
- Financial security. The competitive nature of academia and limited funding can create anxiety.
- Competition in academia. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing myself to others, which can be draining.
How confident and supported do you feel in your academic journey?
- Confident. I have a strong support system and believe in my ability to succeed.
- A mix of both. There are days when I feel empowered and others when I question everything.
- Unsupported. I often feel alone in my struggles and unsure of where to turn for help.
How well do you think you balance your academic pursuits with self-care and personal well-being?
- I prioritize self-care and recognize its importance for long-term success.
- I struggle to find a balance and often neglect my own needs.
- I’m working on setting healthier boundaries and making time for myself.
How connected do you feel to a community of scholars who share your research interests or identity?
- Very connected. I’ve found a supportive community that enriches my work and life.
- Somewhat connected. I have colleagues with shared interests, but I’m seeking deeper connections.
- Disconnected. I feel isolated in my work and long for a sense of belonging.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you in your academic pursuits: lack of funding, limited mentorship opportunities, or unconscious bias from colleagues?
- Unconscious bias, because it’s often subtle and difficult to address directly, yet it creates real barriers.
- Lack of funding, as it can stifle innovation and limit opportunities for groundbreaking research.
- Limited mentorship opportunities, as having a supportive guide is essential, especially for women in academia.
What is the trickiest part about navigating the academic world for you personally?
- Dealing with imposter syndrome and the pressure to constantly prove myself.
- Maintaining a healthy work-life balance and setting boundaries.
- Finding my voice and advocating for myself in a hierarchical system.
Do you struggle more with self-doubt or external barriers when it comes to achieving your academic goals?
- Self-doubt can be crippling, making it hard to believe in my abilities even when I achieve success.
- External barriers, such as bias and discrimination, are the biggest hurdles I face.
- It’s a combination of both, as internal and external factors often interact and influence each other.
Do you have a support system in place, such as a mentor, peer group, or family members, to help you navigate the challenges of academia?
- Yes, I have a strong support system that I can rely on for guidance, encouragement, and understanding.
- I have a few supportive individuals, but I could benefit from a more robust network.
- I feel isolated in my academic journey and would greatly benefit from building a support system.
How do you determine your research project’s objectives each semester?
- I align my objectives with my overall research goals and seek input from mentors.
- I assess the available resources, such as funding and time constraints, to set realistic objectives.
- I consider the current trends and gaps in my field to identify relevant and impactful objectives.
Are your students consistently achieving their assigned learning outcomes?
- Yes, I carefully design my courses and assessments to help students succeed.
- For the most part, but there are always some students who face unique challenges.
- I’m always striving to improve my teaching methods to better support student learning.
How do you manage the administrative aspects of your role as a professor or researcher?
- I’ve developed efficient systems and prioritize tasks to stay organized.
- I often find administrative tasks overwhelming and struggle to keep up.
- I rely on support staff and resources whenever possible to lighten the load.