Stimulating interests in science

Abstract

Scope of Study: At the present time demand far exceeds the supply of young people entering scientific work. This is possibly due to two factors: (1) the increasing number of positions available in this area, and (2) the apparent complacency of youth towards science. This shortage has brought about a public demand to "stimulate interest in science." As this demand has been directed toward the school systems, educators should be considering the following questions: (1) What are interests?, (2) What are some factors that influence interests?, (3) Are there implications for the schools?, and (4) What methods may be employed to stimulate interests in science? This report is based on these questions. Materials used were publications dealing with interests and recent scientific periodicals.

Findings and Conclusions: Lasting interests are formed early in life. Unless our science program is developed in the lower elementary grades, intensified study at the upper levels will do little (percentage-wise) to increase the number of young people who will choose careers in science. Perhaps the most important factor in this area is the science teacher. Contact with a teacher who practices good scientific attitudes will aid the student in developing his own attitudes. Interests are stimulated by a variety of methods, no one of which might be termed a universal method.