Science Attitudes: Enjoyment of Science Lessons and Interest in Pursuing a Scientific Career. High School Students' Gender Differences

ABSTRACT In this study, the dimensions of enjoying science lessons and pursuing science careers were examined under gender considerations. Ex post facto research was conducted on high school students ( N = 599) from the Canary Islands who completed a Spanish version of the Test of Science Related Attitudes (TORSA). There were no significant differences between the genders in the enjoyment of science lessons; however, female students showed a greater interest in pursuing scientific careers. The Spearman rank‐order correlation showed a statistically significant correlation between both dimensions (moderate–strong, r s = 0.721), which was higher for girls (very strong and perfect, r s = 0.782). As a result, the studied dimensions are significantly influenced by the gender of the students. Finally, an approach to science attitudes and relevant information concerning pupils' perceptions of science within the studied context has been revealed, which serves as an initial step for teachers to improve aspects of student motivation, science teaching, and curriculum development.