Factors influencing students’ science subject choice at A-level

Abstract

This study examined the main factors influencing the A-level science subject choice of post-secondary students, delving into the students’ views regarding the subject/s chosen and providing an insight on the improvement of practices, creating a more helpful environment for students. For data collection, three post-secondary schools from different sectors were chosen and a sample of 320 questionnaires was distributed amongst first, second and third year students (students’ doing an extra year) studying at least one science subject at A-level. Results obtained showed that girls have a higher tendency of choosing Biology, describing it as being very interesting and human-related whilst boys were more inclined towards choosing Physics, rating it as interesting and fascinating. Chemistry was then chosen by an equal number of students who rated it as the most difficult science out of all, due to the high level of abstractness. Moreover, parents and science teachers were the most consulted people whilst future career and subject interest were the most influential factors which students kept in mind during the subject choice process. In fact, students studying Biology were attracted towards medical professions; those studying Physics were more inclined towards careers such as architecture, engineering and computer technicians whilst Chemistry students wished to pursue medical and scientific careers in industry. Furthermore, the majority of students rated the subjects as being interesting and described their performance as ‘good’, yet still, all science subjects were rated highly difficult. Such findings provide secondary and post-secondary schools with an idea regarding factors influence students, as well as the change in students’ perception throughout the years. This may help them ensure that students receive adequate support.