Women in the Global Economy

• Introduction
• Learners
• Standards
• Process
• Resources


• Student Page

by Clematis Everett, Columbia University Teachers College

Students in 12th grade economics examine the roles that women play in the global economy. They ultimately create a ranked list of three concrete steps that should be taken to improve gender equity and foster long term economic growth.

Teacher Introduction

Women are 50% of the world's population, but do they contribute to 50% of the world's economic growth?  Shouldn't women play a vital role in fostering long term economic growth throughout the world?  What steps need to be taken in order to improve women's roles in the global economy and move toward gender equity?
This exercise asks students to investigate the roles of women in the global economy and consider steps to create greater gender equity and long term economic growth.  Students then work together to develop a ranked list of concrete steps to take in order to move toward gender equity in the global workforce and long term economic growth.
This exercise has been designed for use in a 12th grade Economics class.  The students will be familiar with the question "How can we achieve steady long term economic growth?"  Thus, adding the aspect of women's roles in the economy creates a challenge that is simultaneously new and familiar.