Expectancy-Value Perspectives on Choice of Science and Technology Education in Late-Modern Societies

This chapter introduces two theoretical perspectives of relevance to understanding educational choice related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). First, expectancy-value theory, as developed by Jacquelynne Eccles and colleagues during several decades, offers a comprehensive model of the different influence factors, considerations and values that are involved when individuals choose education and career. Second, sociological perspectives on the cultural traits and dominating values in late modern societies offer insight into the cultural context in which young people make their choices. The chapter discusses these two theoretical perspectives in relation to each other and to science education research literature concerning young people’s relationship to STEM subjects.

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