In this study, the image of scientists and the self-image in terms of stereotypical masculine and feminine characteristics were investigated for 562 primary and secondary school students. The perceived differences between the image of scientists and t...
In this study, the image of scientists and the self-image in terms of stereotypical masculine and feminine characteristics were investigated for 562 primary and secondary school students. The perceived differences between the image of scientists and the self-image were quantified and compared across grade levels and gender. Their relationships with science-related attitudes were also studied. The results indicated that students hold more masculine characteristics in the image of scientists and more feminine characteristics in the self-image. The perceived differences between the image of scientists and the self-image were greater for female students than male students. Female students also had more negative attitudes than male students on Career Interest in Science and Enjoyment of Science Lesson of the Test of Science-Related Attitudes. It was found that the differences between the perceived images were negatively correlated with science-related attitudes. Although the relationships were found to be statistically significant, the magnitudes were relatively small. Educational implications are discussed.