7th Annual Conference of the Nordic Network for Diversity in Physics (NORNDiP)

Session

Identity and Belonging in Physics

19 Nov 2025, 13:00

Reception, Kårhuset/Student Union building (Chalmers University of Technology)

Conveners

Identity and Belonging in Physics

• Anders Johansson (Chalmers University of Technology)

Description

What draws people into physics, and what sustains their engagement? Contributions will address identity and belonging in education and research, the experiences of young women in secondary-school physics, and the role of joy and play in scientific life.

31. Outside on the Inside of Physics: Findings from a Longitudinal Study of Young Women’s Identities in Upper Secondary Science and Mathematics

Emilie Gertz (University of Copenhagen, Department of Science Education)

19/11/2025, 13:00

Invited talk

This presentation draws on findings from a longitudinal qualitative study exploring how young women navigate their identities within the context of physics, mathematics and other science subjects in Danish upper secondary education. Through student interviews, the study explores how gendered norms and expectations shape processes of recognition and participation in the physics, mathematics and...

42. Me and a student who fits in: What physics students do that tells others that they belong in physics

Maria Vetleseter Bøe (University of Oslo)

19/11/2025, 13:20

Invited talk

Understanding student experiences in physics is essential to promote equal access to physics education and careers. Often associated with masculinity, intelligence, and nerdiness, physics faces inequitable participation based on gender, ethnicity, and social background. Identity-related studies have proven helpful in understanding why some students struggle to fit in. However, quantitative...