Leveraging Active Learning to Close the Gender Gap in Business Education in the United Kingdom (UK)

This chapter examines the potential of active learning strategies to mitigate the persistent gender gap in business education within the UK. Despite increased female enrolment in higher education, women remain underrepresented in business leadership roles. This disparity is exacerbated by systemic biases, socio-cultural expectations, and traditional pedagogical approaches that prioritize passive learning. Research suggests that women benefit significantly from interactive and collaborative learning environments. This chapter explores how active learning strategies such as inquiry-based learning, collaborative learning, experiential learning, flipped classroom, Jigsaw method, problem-based learning, case studies and simulations, can contribute to a more equitable and effective learning environment for female business students in the UK. Drawing upon existing research on gender disparities in higher education, the chapter explores how these strategies can cultivate the confidence, skills, and networks necessary for women to advance in business leadership.