Submission Type
Event
Expected Graduation Date
2005
Location
Center for Natural Science, Illinois Wesleyan University
Start Date
4-16-2005 1:15 PM
End Date
4-16-2005 2:30 PM
Abstract
This research investigates gender differences among high school students with regards to the study of physics. This study focuses on the different perceptions that males and females have about physics and differences in their classroom behavior. High school physics students were surveyed to find any gender differences in the perceptions about the subject. They were observed in a classroom setting to find if males and females behaved differently in a physics classroom. Based on previous research, females have more negative perceptions about physics than males, especially concerning the difficulty and usefulness of the subject. Male students are found to respond to questions more frequently and approach problems in a different manner than female students. As a result of this study, teachers are encouraged to adjust curriculum and teaching styles in order to encourage more female participation in physics classes and foster positive perception about the subject.
Female Gravitation Toward Physics
Center for Natural Science, Illinois Wesleyan University
This research investigates gender differences among high school students with regards to the study of physics. This study focuses on the different perceptions that males and females have about physics and differences in their classroom behavior. High school physics students were surveyed to find any gender differences in the perceptions about the subject. They were observed in a classroom setting to find if males and females behaved differently in a physics classroom. Based on previous research, females have more negative perceptions about physics than males, especially concerning the difficulty and usefulness of the subject. Male students are found to respond to questions more frequently and approach problems in a different manner than female students. As a result of this study, teachers are encouraged to adjust curriculum and teaching styles in order to encourage more female participation in physics classes and foster positive perception about the subject.