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It has been shown “that female students with A’s have similar physics self-efficacy as male students with C’s in introductory courses. Also female students are less likely to see themselves as a physics person than male students” (Marshman, Yasemin Kalender, Nokes-Malach, Schunn, Singh, 2018)). See also Yangqiuting Li, Kyle Whitcomb, and Chandralekha Singh (2020) and Hazari, Tai & Sadler (2007).
Labatorials (combination of “lab” and “tutorial”) developed at the University of Calgary were inspired by the introductory physics tutorial system entitled ‘Tutorials in Introductory Physics’ at the University of Washington. Students doing Labatorials typically work in groups of four to five using structured worksheets that target prior understanding and emphasize conceptual reasoning alongside hands-on experimentation. The worksheets guide students through predictions, calculations, graphing, and experimental tasks, with a stronger emphasis on experimental engagement than traditional labs.
We present results from a study comparing the experiences of female and male students undertaking labatorials. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study collects qualitative and quantitative data, including pre-tests, post-tests, reflective writing assignments, interviews and surveys. The research was conducted at Concordia University and Mount Royal University with student groups composed of mixed genders.
Interviewed students perceived that women more frequently engaged socially to support learning, while men more often relied on autonomy. Women also played a larger role in maintaining social cohesion within lab groups. A strong belief in a gendered division of labor was reported, with men typically performing hands-on experimental tasks and women assuming analytical or note-taking roles. Initially, female students reported lower confidence in handling laboratory apparatus; however, by the end of the semester, they were more actively engaged in working with the experimental setup.
Female students gained confidence and reported feeling capable of working with experimental equipment and contributing more equally alongside male students.
| Keyword-1 | New Developments in Physics Ed |
|---|---|
| Keyword-2 | Tutorial and Laboratory |