Why do so few girls elect to study physics to A level and beyond?
The figures are astonishing, but won’t surprise many parents or teachers. In 2007, well over 21,000 boys took physics A-level, but only just over 6,000 girls made the same choice. And the numbers of young women wishing to take physics to degree level falls away even more dramatically. Why is there such a huge discrepancy between the number of boys and girls taking A level physics? And why do so few young women opt for a career in science? Jenni talks to Lizz Whitelegg, Senior Lecturer in Science Education at the Open University and Dr Maggie Aderin, a Space scientist who specialises in telescopes and satellite systems, and who also runs ‘Tours of the Universe’ to inspire children to get more involved in science.
'Physics - Girls Speak Out', 'Girls in Physics' and 'Maggie - Reaching for the Stars' will be broadcast on February 12th 2008 on Teachers TV and are available online.
