Compulsory physics : an evaluation

Abstract

This study considers the reasons that led to the introduction of compulsory Physics in Maltese State Secondary Schools in 1979, how the decision was implemented and its educational and infrastructural consequences, including the repercussions on further studies at post-secondary and tertiary level. Key persons were interviewed, documents and dissertations were reviewed and examination results analysed. No stated reasons were found as to why this decision was taken. However, most probably the reason was to create a more scientific and technological culture. Compulsory Physics ahs led more students to study Physics at 'O' Level and to sit for the examination but the percentage passes, on the whole do not seem to have changed from when the subject were optional. More girls studied Physics at school but more boys sat for the 'O' level. Overall, no significant differences in grades in grades of males and females at 'O' levels were found when Physics was optional but differences in favour of males occurred in recent years. The number of students, especially females, taking Physics at 'A' levels increased and generally there was no significant difference in performance between males and females. Any significant differences in grades, were almost always in favour of males. The number of females taking courses requiring 'A' level Physics at the University increased.