Exploring the effect of a science-themed career exhibition on South African children’s perceptions of scientists

Abstract

Abstract Background The Draw-a-Scientist Test (DAST) has been widely employed to explore individuals' perceptions of scientists, aiming to identify stereotypical images that could influence attitudes towards science-related career decisions. Purpose This study examines young children's perceptions of scientists using the Draw-a-Scientist Test, administered before and after participation in a science-themed educational display. Sample Our study focused on primary school learners aged between eight and 12 from three public schools. Design and methods Students were provided with a blank sheet of paper and asked to draw a scientist both before and after the participation in the educational display on science careers in the form of a mobile interactive exhibition set up in the assembly hall of each participating school. The learners’ drawings were analysed using a content analysis approach. Results Compared to similar studies elsewhere in the world, this study indicated a notable difference in how young children perceive scientists, particularly in terms of the scientists’ age and gender. Both before and after the intervention, our participants predominantly drew scientists as being younger and female. Conclusions The findings provide initial evidence that a science-themed career exhibition may influence selected aspects of children's perceptions of scientists, although the overall changes observed were modest. The study contributes to understanding how South African children perceive scientists and highlights the potential value of exposing learners to diverse representations of science and science-related careers from an early age.