Trouble with Science, The

Synopsis: Examines why it is that science is an unpopular subject with girls and explores how their behaviour in lessons reinforces sex-role stereotypes. Shows three schools and the University of Cambridge. At Grantham Boys’ Grammar school a 6th-form physics class are shown confidentally going about their business and discussing their career aspirations. At Kesteven and Grantham Girls’ School a parallel 6th-form class is shown at work. Their more tentative approach is obvious as are their humble career aspirations, relating to their scientific interests. In Queen Elizabeth’s High School, Gainsborough, a mixed class is shown with girls playing predominately ‘helper’ roles. Examines the position of biology as a girls’ subject, its popularity with girls much in evidence alongside its reputation as a ‘soft’ science. Finally, Sian Phillips, Union President at the University of Cambridge and a geology graduate argues that science is still a man’s world.
Series: Exploring Educational Issues, Course E208
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Medium: Video; Videocassette. Standard formats. col. 25 min.
Year of production: 1989
Availability: OUT OF DISTRIBUTION
Subjects: Education
Keywords: equality of opportunity; science teaching; secondary education

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