Is This a Con Job?

Because this fire needs more fuel.

Why Girls Leave Science And Math – Confidence, Says Psychologist

The study confirmed that old stereotypes die slowly. Both boys and girls perceived that teachers thought boys were stronger at math and science. For boys this represented a support, while for girls it acted as a barrier.

Top barriers for all age groups and disciplines were test anxiety and subject difficulty. But these differed between boys and girls. In addition, the genders formed their perceptions of math or science based on the barriers and supports, but they often arrived at different views.

Ultimately, it’s perception, more than reality, that affects the person’s academic and career choices, says Fouad.

But Don't Put Us in a Home

Adopt-a-Physicist

Fall 2008 Schedule

Teachers Registration: Now – Sept. 8 (or until full)
Physicist Registration: Sept. 9 – Sept. 15 (or until full)
Teachers adopt physicists: Sept. 16 – Sept. 23
Discussion forums open: Sept. 29 – Oct. 17

This effort is led by Sigma Pi Sigma, the physics honor society, and aided by American Physical Society and the American Association of Physics Teachers. Technical support is through the ComPADRE Digital Library.

I did this two years ago, and a colleague did it last year; it sounded like the format had evolved to be a little more interactive. When I participated, I was given a list of questions, the students chose a subset to ask, and it was done through email via the teacher. Now it looks like there is a discussion forum, with more freeform interaction.