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Nov 7, 2025
Abstract
This article presents the systematization of the educational experience of the Women's Mathematics Tournament, which aims to promote confidence in the development of mathematical skills among girls in 7th grade, 8th grade through 1st year of secondary education in public, subsidized, and private schools in the city of Antofagasta. The initiative was organized by the Women’s Leadership and Participation axis of the Science Up Consortium and the Department of Mathematics at the Universidad Católica del Norte. It consisted of four workshops conducted between October and December 2023, culminating in a final tournament.
The methodology included playful activities, solving mathematical exercises using concrete materials, and problem-based learning. The text presents a didactic analysis that considers Dweck's Growth Theory, a gender-focused approach, and systematization. It also aims to answer the question: Do mathematics workshops targeted at girls enhance their self-perception of knowledge and problem-solving skills in mathematics?
The workshops demonstrated a positive impact on the girls' confidence in learning mathematics, improving both their problem-solving abilities and critical thinking. The results suggest that promoting a gender-focused approach and conducting collaborative activities were key elements for the success of the process. These findings support the recommendation to replicate this initiative in other educational and territorial contexts to continue fostering female inclusion in STEM in the country.
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