The identification of factors contributing to the relative underachievement of boys in design and technology

Since the 1990s, it has become apparent that girls are outperforming boys in the 16+ examinations in England and Wales. This paper focuses on the different levels of achievement in design and technology. It commences by considering the dimensions of the gender gap at national level, before looking at one school in detail. The methodology of this investigation is described before analysing the gap. Quantitative and qualitative methods have been used, including focus group interviews with students and semi-structured interviews with staff to identify those factors that contribute to the relative underachievement of boys.