A Study of Chinese College Students’ Images of the Scientist

Abstract

Using the Draw-A-Scientist Test (DAST), this study investigated Chinese undergraduates’ images of scientists. The stereotype of the scientist was stable in Chinese undergraduates’ conceptions as an elderly or middle-aged, intelligent, knowledgeable, hardworking and committed male. Chinese students tended to view the scientist as not well adjusted, dressing simply, serious, thin, living an introverted and unpleasant life. However, alternative images such as a smiling face and an optimistic outlook also emerged in a small portion of the participants’ drawings of a scientist. Chinese students are impressed by the high social recognition and success of scientists. It is worth noting that most Chinese students imagined scientists as individuals working alone to conduct scientific studies. What is more, a considerable number of Chinese students regarded social contributions as the primary motivation for pursuing a scientific career instead of internal interests and passion for science.