Factors that influence student pursuit of science careers; the role of gender, ethnicity, family and friends

Rodrigues, Susan, Jindal-Snape, Divya and Snape, Jonathan (2011) Factors that influence student pursuit of science careers; the role of gender, ethnicity, family and friends. Science Education International, 22 (4). pp. 266-273. ISSN 2077-2327

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Abstract

This study adds to a body of research reporting on pupils’ choices and outcomes in relation to science. The article reports on 536 Scottish pupils’ perceptions regarding reported intention to choose careers in science, with further analysis in terms of family, friends, gender and ethnicity. The pupils, aged 14-15, from 5 schools in one Scottish education authority, thought that science is important and scientific careers are good. Pupils had evenly balanced views and attitudes towards science, but just over one third (38.7%) of all respondents indicated that they were considering a career in science. The major factor influencing pupils’ career choices in Scotland seemed to be their perception of whether their parents want them to pursue a career in science.

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