Peer-reviewed research2017–2026 update
Drawing attention to attitudes toward scientists: Changes in 10- to 13-year-old students as a result of a GeoCamp experience in New Zealand
After a two-week GNS Science GeoCamp in the Wairarapa, 10- to 13-year-olds drew scientists in more varied, realistic ways and less as lab-coated eccentrics.
What's new
GNS Science ran a two-week Earth Science GeoCamp that gave 10- to 13-year-olds learning experiences outside the classroom. Researchers studied 23 students at the Wairarapa programme, who drew annotated pictures of scientists on the first day and again six months later. Over time the drawings moved away from the stereotype of the eccentric chemist in a lab coat. Later drawings showed scientists who were not eccentric, some of them women, some working outdoors, and working together. Students also recognised the range of work scientists do and named problems they would like to solve as scientists.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
This is a New Zealand example of EOTC delivered by a science organisation. The authors suggest it produced affective learning outcomes in how students see scientists, which may matter for who sees themselves in science.
Putting it into practice
Before and after a science-focused trip or camp, ask students to 'draw a scientist' and compare the drawings to see how their ideas have shifted.
How strong is the evidence
A small study of one programme with 23 students, using drawings collected at two time points. The abstract reports no comparison group. It reports change in attitudes towards scientists and does not report measures of science knowledge.
What to read
The full article, especially the drawing method and examples of student drawings.