Children's image of scientists

Abstract

Children tend to hold a stereotypic image of scientists, mainly as a male, wearing a lab coat and glasses, using lab equipment. Moreover, science educators are concerned about the limited number of students taking science options. This study aims to identify the image of scientists held by Maltese students in the last two years in Primary and the first two years in Secondary Schools, and to investigate how this image varies across age, school and gender differences and for students aiming to opt for science subjects and careers. The main research method involved asking students to draw a scientist or scientists. This test was administered to 600 students from the South and the central part of Malta. Interviews were also carried out with twelve Form 2 students. The typical image depicted was that of a solitary, indoor scientist, involved in chemistry based experiments and surrounded by lab equipment. Relatively more drawings than in past studies depicted female scientists, though the male figure still dominated. Also the young scientist is replacing the middle-aged or elderly one whereas lab coats, eyeglasses and facial hair appear to have lost much of their popularity. A relatively stronger stereotypic image tended to be held by boys and Junior Lyceum Students and also by those students aspiring for a science related career. The development of students' positive views of science and scientists is possible by giving students - while they are still in their primary years - the opportunity to meet various scientists of both genders and to discuss not simply accept all that is transmitted through the media.