PERC 2012 Abstract Detail Page
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| Abstract Title: | The Research Subfield Choice of Women in Academic Physics: A Pilot Study |
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| Abstract: | The low representation of women in physics is apparent at the undergraduate level through faculty positions. However, when looking at the percentages of women choosing particular subfields within physics it is found that women preferentially choose degree programs in physics education (30%)* and astronomy/astrophysics (40%)** as compared to the average of women in physics overall (18%)**. This study seeks to understand the research subfield choice of women in academic physics at large US research universities through in-depth interviews and a grounded theory analytical approach. Though preliminary results have not shown why women chose their research subfield, it has shown that positive pre-college experiences are bringing these women to physics while supportive advisors and collaboration amongst students are encouraging these women to persist. |
| Footnote: | *Personal Communication with Charles Henderson **AIP Statistics, http://www.aip.org/statistics/ |
| Abstract Type: | Contributed Poster Presentation |
Author/Organizer Information | |
| Primary Contact: |
Ramón S. Barthelemy Western Michigan University |
| Co-Author(s) and Co-Presenter(s) |
Megan L. Grunert Charles Henderson |
Contributed Poster | |
| Contributed Poster: | Download the Contributed Poster |
