Design exercises as confidence equalizers: differences in confidence between male and female students

ABSTRACT:

Do short design exercises boost confidence equally for males and females? In a 7-semester study (n=426; 201F, 225M), females reported lower initial confidence (p<.001, g=0.31) but matched males in final confidence and gains after four applied exercises (yield, creep, impact, fatigue). Regression showed no sex differences in final or Δ confidence (p=.42, g=0.03). Active design integration in engineering science courses may reduce sex-based disparities in engineering confidence and self-efficacy. Sex balance in the cohort may suppress typical gaps, highlighting context as key to equity.