The Effect of White Lab Coats on Elementary Students' Science Self-Concept

• In Event: 67.021 - Research in Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

One of the factors that influences an individual’s STEM career aspirations is their science self-concept. This qualitative study examined the influence of lab coats on the science self-concepts of 73 fifth-grade students in a rural, southeastern state with pre and post- treatment interviews. The study found that the intervention increased the number of students who saw themselves as scientists and enhanced their science self-concept. Youth in many communities have limited access to science role models, and lab coats may be an effective tool to change the way students in a variety of settings see themselves in relation to science and scientists: creating an enhanced sense of relatedness to science and future STEM careers.

Authors

• M. Gail Jones, North Carolina State University

• Megan Ennes, North Carolina State University

• Tammy Lee, East Carolina University

• Sarah J. Carrier, North Carolina State University

• Lauren P. Madden, The College of New Jersey

• Emily Cayton, Campbell University

• Katherine Chesnutt, North Carolina State University

• Pamela Huff, North Carolina State University

• Lanette Phillips, North Carolina State University