Woods, Cindy (2008) Reasons for high ability regional and rural girls' decisions to enrol in senior secondary physics and intermediate mathematics. In: Proceedings of the 39th Annual ASERA Conference 2008. From: 39th Annual ASERA Conference 2008, 2-5 July 2008, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.

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Abstract

This study investigates the factors influencing high ability Australian female students’ decisions about enrolling in senior physics and intermediate mathematics (Maths B). A dominating characteristic in determining course participation is early achievement at school. Students from a high achievement level are more likely to enrol in advanced mathematics and physical science. By limiting the sample population to high ability students, this study was able to focus on influences other than academic ability. An expectancy-value achievement motivation framework was used to explore the cognitive considerations and social influences on enrolment decisions. Based on analysis of survey (n = 97) data, the study found that female students who did enrol in physics and maths B referenced their self-concept of ability with the perceived value of the subject and encouragement from significant others. These findings have implications for Year 10 science and mathematics teachers, and their ability to potentially influence high achieving students’ senior subject and career choices.

Item ID:	9827
Item Type:	Conference Item (Non-Refereed Research Paper)
Keywords:	secondary education; physics education; mathematics education
Related URLs:	http://www.asera.org.au/index.php/annual... http://www.asera.org.au
Date Deposited:	21 Jul 2010 01:00
FoR Codes:	13 EDUCATION > 1303 Specialist Studies in Education > 130309 Learning Sciences @ 34% 13 EDUCATION > 1301 Education Systems > 130106 Secondary Education @ 33% 13 EDUCATION > 1302 Curriculum and Pedagogy > 130208 Mathematics and Numeracy Curriculum and Pedagogy @ 33%
SEO Codes:	93 EDUCATION AND TRAINING > 9301 Learner and Learning > 930103 Learner Development @ 50% 93 EDUCATION AND TRAINING > 9399 Other Education and Training > 939904 Gender Aspects of Education @ 50%
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