Distortions and gender-related differences in the perception of mechanical engineering in high school students
Pere Joan Ferrando Piera1, Mar Gutiérrez-Colón Plana, Paloma Paleo Cageao
1Universidad Rovira i Virgili.
Background:
The reason for this study was the low interest that high school students, particularly females, show for the subject of mechanical engineering (ME). We assumed that this problem was partly due to: (a) lack of understanding of the tasks involved in ME, and (b) a distorted and negative perception of the professional environment and working conditions.
Method:
To assess these two assumptions, two measurement instruments (tasks and perceptions) were developed and administered in a sample of 496 high school students. A multiple-group design was used and data was analyzed by using an extended item response theory model.
Results:
In general terms, the results agreed with our expectations. However, no significant gender differences were found.
Discussion:
The implications of the results for future improvements are discussed.
More Related Videos
06:54A Virtual Simulation Experiment of Mechanics: Material Deformation and Failure Based on Scanning Electron Microscopy
Published on: January 20, 2023
06:57Utilizing Electroencephalography Measurements for Comparison of Task-Specific Neural Efficiencies: Spatial Intelligence Tasks
Published on: August 9, 2016
Related Concept Videos
Stereotype Threat and Self-fulfilling Prophecies
Frictional Forces on Screws
A jack with a square-threaded screw is a mechanical device used to lift heavy loads by applying a force at its handle. When the force is applied, the screw turns, raising the load. The screw can...
Fluid Pressure
According to Pascal's law, a fluid at rest will generate equal pressure in all directions. This pressure is measured as a force per unit area, and its magnitude depends on the fluid's specific...
Equivalent Couples
Two couples are considered to be equivalent if they produce the same rotational effect on a rigid body. In other words, the two couples have the same magnitude and act in the same direction, causing the same angular displacement or acceleration in the body.
For instance, consider two couples lying in the plane of the page, with one having a pair of equal...
Flat Belts: Problem Solving
Machines: Problem Solving II
