The lack of interest among adolescents in school science courses is a complex issue, but two
are particularly critical. Contemporary students live in a culture that increasingly emphasizes self-reflection and autonomy, and the range of subjects they are
with is far broader than in the past. Adolescence is a key period for the formation of identity, and ample evidence shows that the way subject choices contribute to one's sense of self—particularly in how they reflect personal
—is crucial for young people. Specifically, science curricula need to more clearly demonstrate the career pathways that science can offer—both within scientific fields and in science-related professions—and articulate
these careers are valuable, meaningful, and rewarding.