Abstract
This research explored how the Challenger experience influenced over 655 elementary
boys’ and girls’ general attitudes to science and space during the 5 months after their visit by examining
their responses to four different attitude scales. These were administered to the 10- to 11-year-olds immediately
before and after the Challenger experience as well as 2 and 5 months later. Knowledge tests were
also administered before and after the visit. A sample of children completed an existing measure of anxiety.
Although there were mainly positive outcomes immediately after the Challenger experience, there were
some negative effects. There were also noticeable differences between boys and girls. Some 24% of pupils
were inspired to become scientists. There was also less fear of space travel with a greater appreciation of the
use of science to protect the planet after the visit. Most girls improved and maintained their attitudes toward
science in society. A sizeable number of pupils were relatively unaffected by the experience and there was a
significant negative effect on a small group of anxious girls. There are indications that previsit preparation
and careful choice of roles during the simulation are important. � 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci
Teach 39: 979–1000, 2002
