The Perception of Scientists by Elementary Students in a Rural Low-Income School

• In Event: Science Teaching and Learning: Elementary Science Education

Abstract

Research indicates that communities that prioritize religiosity and conservative political viewpoints often dismiss science and scientific careers. In a rural, low-income, highly diverse area of east Texas, the perceptions of K-5 students about “scientists” are essential to determining how these students will make future education and career choices. This mixed methods research design which includes a modified version of the Chambers (1983) “Draw a Scientist Test” (DAST) was designed to explore how young students view/express their views of scientists. The objective of this study is not only to examine the results of the modified DAST test, but to also critically examine the results keeping in mind the local opportunities for the student to pursue a career in a STEM field.

Authors

• Chrissy J Cross, Stephen F. Austin State University

• Tingting Xu, Stephen F. Austin State University

• Lauren E Burrow, Stephen F. Austin State University