مرکز منطقه ای اطلاع رساني علوم و فناوري - Career in Science and Engineering Fields: The Experiences of Female Students and Multilingual/Multicultural Students

Abstract :

Equality of opportunities is one of the most emphasized themes in science education research. Factors like gender, socio-cultural characteristics and socio-economic status are among those most likely to render students a disadvantaged status during the course of science education around the world. In this research, in light of the cultural-historical activity theory, answers were sought to the questions of what the experiences, and if any, difficulties faced were by female students and multilingual/multicultural students during their pursuit of a career in science and engineering fields. Qualitative research methodology with phenomenological approach was employed and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The results suggest that there are factors impacting students’ education experiences that are mostly challenging. These factors point to many contradictions within the activity system. Socio-economic status, educational system and background are among the important tools in achieving the objects, and societal norms, explicit and implicit rules are other influential components of the activity system. Recommendations were made on resolving the contradictions so that more fruitful educational experiences for female students and multilingual/multicultural students are attained.