Personal and Social Interactions Between Young Girls and Scientists: Examining Critical Aspects for Identity Construction

Abstract

At a 5-day summer camp designed for middle-school girls (N = 50), fifth through ninth-grade students were able to identify with individual scientists and learn more about the science field. Data from the girls’ journals, pictorial representations, and field notes demonstrated that these young women related to scientists who actively engaged them in hands-on, problem-based activities and had a sense of humor while doing so. Girls closely identified with science fields that offer an opportunity for travel and for interaction with animals. In addition, it is evident that the girls’ personal and social interactions shaped their perceptions of scientists and helped them internalize their experiences as members of a science community in relation to their overall science identities.