A Critical Race Theory Analysis of the Draw-a-Scientist Test: Are They Really That White?

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Y

28

Critical Theory; Race; Scientists; Freehand Drawing; Tests; Minority Groups

10.1007/s11422-022-10107-6

1871-1502

The focus of this study was to examine peer-reviewed 'draw-a-scientist' test (DAST) research studies conducted primarily in the USA. In a similar review of science education research into the 'nature of science views', it was found that race played a prominent role in that research agenda and therefore may be impacting DAST research as well. Using critical race theory (CRT) as a framework, 28 published draw-a-scientist test (DAST) studies spanning from 1976 to 2018 were selected and reviewed. This study is unique in the fact that it is the only critique of the instrument in which race was the focus. Results suggest that race and language have played a significant role in DAST research to date, as Black, Latinx, Native American and other people of color were found to be disproportionally excluded as participants. Implications of excluding these individuals are explored, and suggestions for making DAST research more equitable are discussed.

As Provided

2022

EJ1332976