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Women Scientist Role Models on Screen

A Case Study of Contact

Western Michigan University

In the absence of real-life role models, children may construct an understanding of the role of women in science based largely on images of women scientists they see in the media. This study assesses the images used in the portrayal of a female astronomer in the film, Contact. The themes used as a framework for the analysis were early encouragement in science, professional status, professional reputation, professional relationships, and impact of personal relationships on career goals. The film's portrayal of a woman scientist is discussed in light of empirical data and anecdotal reports on the actual experiences of women scientists.

Science Communication, Vol. 21, No. 2, 111-136 (1999)
DOI: 10.1177/1075547099021002002


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				J. Steinke Cultural Representations of Gender and Science: Portrayals of Female Scientists and Engineers in Popular Films Science Communication, September 1, 2005; 27(1): 27 - 63. [Abstract] [PDF]