The role of women in geological higher education - Bedford College, London (Catherine Raisin) and Newham College, Cambridge, UK

Abstract

This book chapter explores the place of geology in science education and the part women have played in geological higher education through history. The context is set firstly by exploring the informal role women have played in education in general and secondly, by explaining in detail the positions they held after 1870, when female higher education was put onto a more formal footing. To illustrate this, the evolution of two female colleges of higher education - Bedford College, London and Newnham College, Cambridge both offering geological education within science are evaluated within a wider educational context. Finally, the cases of Dr Catherine Raisin, who was based at Bedford College, and Dr Gertrude Elles, based at Newnham College as role models are highlighted within this wider framework.