Exploring factors motivating girls to study Physical science in Grade 10 in the Rakwadu Circuit

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore factors which motivated girls to study Physical Sciences in Grade 10. The study followed a qualitative research paradigm and a case study design. A sample of twenty four girls from three secondary schools in Rakwadu Circuit in Limpopo province was purposively sampled for the study. Data was collected using interviews with Grade 10 girls who were studying Physical Sciences and Grade 9 girls who intended to study Physical Sciences in Grade 10. In addition, document analysis was used to analyse participants’ classwork, tests and other forms of assessments. The results show that these groups of girls were motivated by both external factors and internal factors. The factors included career opportunities that Physical Sciences offers, financial assistance, learner performance and interest in the subject. The study revealed that girls had positive attitudes towards science and wanted to pursue science related careers. The learning environment and family also played a role in motivating learners to study science. It is therefore recommended that parents, educators and the entire education sector support and motivate girls to assert their role in science.