ERIC Number: EJ1447970
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Dec
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0157-244X
EISSN: EISSN-1573-1898
Unveiling Stereotypes: A Study on Science Perceptions among Children in Northwest Mexico
Ulises Bardullas; Eugenio Leyva-Figueroa
Research in Science Education, v54 n6 p1199-1215 2024
The prevailing portrayal of science and scientists within the public domain is a multifaceted mix of conventional stereotypes. Our study investigates these perceptions among Mexican children, analyzing 816 drawings and descriptions collected from fourth to seventh graders in rural and urban schools in Northwestern Mexico. Drawings were analyzed for the scientist's appearance, location, and activity using mDAST/DAST, and each category was subcategorized for deeper compressive. The results confirm stereotypical depictions in all categories, however, girls draw more female scientists, mainly characterized by Caucasian features. Likewise, although stereotypical lab depictions persist, many drawings show alternative lab research and outdoor activities. Our study highlights the importance of promoting a diverse and inclusive image of scientists and their work, starting from an early age, using inclusive textbooks and effective pedagogical strategies.
Descriptors: Children, Childrens Attitudes, Foreign Countries, Scientific Concepts, Stereotypes, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7, Elementary School Students, Elementary School Science, Rural Schools, Urban Schools, Scientists, Individual Characteristics, Freehand Drawing, Diversity, Inclusion
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2123/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 4; Intermediate Grades; Grade 5; Middle Schools; Grade 6; Grade 7; Junior High Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Mexico
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A