Primary students' perception of scientists in cartoons

Abstract

Children as from a tender age may be put off science because of stereotypical representations they may hold. Research carried out with primary level children in Malta confirms this influence. The country is potentially losing a huge number of scientists. Research methodology adapted so far was the DAST (Draw A Scientist Test) which captures the image of a scientist held but does not support the source of such image. The aim of this study is to investigate the possible influence transmitted through media namely through two particular popular cartoons Dexter and Professor Utonium in The Power Puff Girls. Both these cartoon characters have stereotypic scientists as protagonists. The methodology used was qualitative. Children from Year 4 and Year 5 classes were shown pictures illustrating "Dexter" and "Professor Utonium". The children interviewed were selected according to their familiarity with the seen cartoon characters. The interviews investigated how much the children thought that these scientists represented real scientists. The research revealed that stereotypic images still persist. Children did not distinguish between the cartoon scientists and real life scientists. Thus it was evident, that media is an active influential medium on children's views which is encouraging stereotypic discriminations.