Back

Survey Says Canada’s Teens See Science as Not “Cool”

By Ryan Leclaire
  |  
  1 Min Read
Canada Teens Science

Science is not popular with Canadian teens.

An Angus Reid Vision Critical survey reveals that the cool kids don’t want to study science in college or university.

Despite the quantity and quality of jobs in the science or technical industry, a mere 37% of surveyed teens want to study science at the post-secondary level. Part of the problem is that only 4% of students polled said they see people working in science as “cool.” While 81% said they see science professionals as “intelligent,” and 54% see them as “serious.”

These numbers come despite the fact that 82% of respondents acknowledged that studying science can lead to a profitable career.

“We need to encourage more teens to pursue science and technology learning at high school and post-secondary levels,” said Bonnie Schmidt, president and founder of Let’s Talk Science, a non-profit organization that promotes science learning.

“The reality is that science education opens many more doors for career opportunities than people realize. A basic understanding of science is also needed for everyday life.”

The survey polled 502 Canadian postsecondary students from the ages of 16-18, whose parents are Angus Reid Forum panel members.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Popular Stories

Study Magazine - 3 Ways to Prepare for Back to School
Student Loans and Grants
In Canada there are a plethora of student aid programs to help students across all walks of life in pursuing post-secondary education. These programs provide the necessary financial assistance to go back to school and excel in your career.
Student Loans and Grants
In Canada there are a plethora of student aid programs to help students across all walks of life in pursuing post-secondary education. These programs provide the necessary financial assistance to go back to school and excel in your career.
BECOME A CONTRIBUTER

Are you a Writer with a Story to Share?

We are looking for contributers for the website. Want to get your work published and give back to the industry? We can help.