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Peer-reviewed article

“Going to these events truly opens your eyes”. Perceptions of science and science careers following a family visit to a science festival

January 22, 2019 | Public Programs

Young people's decisions to study post-compulsory science are strongly influenced by the attitude of their parents, but many families, especially those from deprived backgrounds, see science as ‘narrow’ and ‘not for us’. We asked whether family attendance at a science festival — a growing but under-studied activity — could shift attitudes. Our mixed-methods study found parents from more deprived areas were disproportionately likely to say attendance had improved their perception of science. Parents from the most deprived areas were significantly more likely to feel increased positivity about their children pursuing science careers. Participants also reported learning about the breadth of careers in science. However we found no evidence that attendance boosted informal science activity in low-SES families.

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  • Cherry Canovan
    Author
    University of Central Lancashire
  • Citation

    DOI : 10.22323/2.18020201
    ISSN : 1824-2049
    Publication Name: Journal of Science Communication
    Volume: 18
    Number: 2
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: General STEM
    Audience: Families | Parents/Caregivers | Museum/ISE Professionals
    Environment Type: Public Programs | Public Events and Festivals
    Access and Inclusion: Low Socioeconomic Status

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