Individual and small group learning environment
Large group activities are not as conducive to learning for female
students (American Association of University Women, 1990; Sadker & Sadker,
1995). Most of the time spent in the ASPIRE class is spent in a small
group setting or working individually.

Teacher as Facilitator
The ASPIRE program allows teachers to become facilitators in a research
environment. Students working with computers and able to discuss their
problems with the teacher or with their mentor. In these settings females
and males receive the same type of feedback and reinforcement from the
teacher. Both females and males attempt to solve the problem before
seeking help from the teacher, further enhancing their problem solving
skills. Additionally, since 77% of the teachers are females, the female
students have a role model not only in this highly technical area but also
in their academic progress.