Science or Humanities

[ypk]

Russian scientists claim that they can seriously advise young people whether they are best suited to study Science or Humanities. They can do this by simply looking and talking briefly/socially with the young person involved.How do they do it?

[theprof]

It's not difficult.

I'm a senior member of management, a science dean and a professor of biochemistry at one of the most prestigious UK universities. In my time in academia, I've lectured students in chemistry, biology and biochemistry. Part of my training some years ago involved a stint as an Admissions Tutor at Central England university where I was responsible for interviewing sixth-form and FE college applicants who wished to study chemistry at degree level.

The interview technique concentrated mainly upon a very low-key, friendly and informal discussion with the applicant about their interests outside chemistry and university over and above what had been entered on the UCCA form.

These Russian scientists look for logical reasoning traits in young people which is invariably based upon their own methods of thinking. They discuss with them their hobbies and interests outside their favourite academic subjects and look for commitment and enthusiasm in these hobbies and interests. Time devoted to these interests is also important in the assessement. For example, if a student is a member of an amateur theatre group and spends a couple of weeks at a stretch at evening performances, this might demonstrate a person more inclined to the humanities than the sciences. Such a student might also find it difficult to find the time to study outside the confines of the university.

[theprof]

On the other hand, a student who is a member of a Rambling Association or Natural History Society and can discuss with ease flora and fauna, might be a potentially superb student to study sciences.

From personal experience, an in-depth chat with a student is rarely required to show whether they lean towards the humanities or sciences. It's possible to get a "feel" for a student within about five minutes of talking to them over general matters. A favourite trick is to ask them something along the lines of "Have you ever wondered why......" in relation to their hobbies etc. An inquisitive and potentially scientific mind soon stands out. Their ability to explain concepts in their hobbies step by step often shows a student that might excel at writing reports and potentially teach others in years to come.

As far as looks are concerned, I've come across many students who look quite stern and yet are a barrel of laughs beneath and vice-versa. Facial expressions upon chatting to them are a better guideline in my opinion but others may think differently.

[China Doll]

Ola Theprof,

I was quite happily going along with your thoughts there but then I had a thought myself. Technically, a quick chat with me will reveal an inclination towards the humanities but the inqusitive side of my personality has been remarked on several times (on occasion even as a good thing!) and I'm actually quite logical. So how would you decide with someone like me? Do I fall in to two camps or would you question me more until it's really obvious?

[theprof]

Hi China

You're not alone in being as you describe. I'm sorry to say that in these circumstances some of my departments admission tutors would indeed question you more deeply until your ability and commitment to study the course was really obvious.

At the end of the day, it's about making the best effort to make sure we've got the best of the students that have applied - an average of only 28% of this years applicants were successful in getting into my department.

As for me, well I'll keep a place for you bearing in mind the interesting discussions we've had here in the past!

[China Doll]

Oh bless you Prof, I just wondered! :c)

I think it's safe to say I'm humanities but with a touch of science. I haven't got the brain to get to grips with physics and while my favourtie question is why?, it is also the favourtie question of a two year old and they probably would get to grips with physics better than me!