Issues surrounding gender and mathematics participation and performance have been of growing interest internationally. During the mid-20th century, there was a considerable amount of research indicating that men and women differ in performance and abilities in mathematics. However, the findings during and after this period utilized historical facts and perspectives, along with empirical research, to develop theories and belief systems related to gender inequality in mathematics. In more developed countries, the debates related to gender inequality and mathematics are more pronounced and widely utilized than in developing countries, largely because of issues related to general educational access and equity. While there are many uses of the term gender, its use in regard to mathematics and any differences that exist between male and females has primarily ...