Primary School Student’s Scientist Perception and their Attitudes towards Science: A Case Study

Abstract

Scholars report that the students’ interest in STEM declines and suggest to approach them earlier. This case study with the convenient sample of seven primary school students investigates the students’ view of science and scientists and examine the following research questions in the Dutch lower secondary school context: (1) What are young students' images and perceptions of scientists and their work? (2) How do young students conceptualize science and scientist? (3) What are young students' attitudes toward science, STEM careers and science involvements? To find an answer to these questions, four different measurements were employed in the study. First, the students joined a photo-elicitation interview (PIE) exploring their values and perceptions, second, a Word Association Test (WAT) searching the cognitive structures, third, responded an attitude questionnaire and lastly, they completed the Draw-a-Scientist Test (DAST) and joined a follow-up semi structured interview individually. The analysis showed that there are stereotypical image of science and scientists among the students in this study. The environmental context and the pandemic period have influence on their perceptions. The students conceptualized science and scientists realistically and showed the higher positive attitude towards science than the STEM career and science involvement in the future. The multiple measurements provided a broader perspective on the students’ view. The discussion extended to the methodological aspects and suggestions were given.