The problem of this study is twofold. The first is to discover in what ways are physics teachers and counselors in large Texas public secondary schools encouraging students to take physics, and second, what are their perceptions of reasons for student avoidance of physics. The population consisted of physics teachers and counselors in large (1,310 minimum enrollment) high and low percentage physics enrollment schools. Percentage enrollment in physics is defined as the number of students enrolled in physics compared to total twelfth grade enrollment. Thirty high (above 8.9) and thirty low (below 8.0) percentage enrollment schools comprise the sample population. Data were collected using separate questionnaires that related to (a) school, (b) physics teacher, and (c) counselor variables that could affect physics enrollments. The questionnaires addressed to perceptions of both physics teachers and counselors covered (a) the exchange of physics course information between students, teachers, and counselors, (b) the method of exchange of physics course information, and (c) the extent to which the physics program is sold to the student body. Also elicited were eleven responses from both physics teachers and counselors that pertain to perceived reasons for student avoidance of physics courses. A statistical analysis was made between physics teachers and counselors perceptions pairing high and low percentage enrollment groups by chi square analysis of each item of the questionnaire, using a .05 level for significance.

This investigation is to determine the extent of male participation in home economics courses in public schools. Related questionnaires were completed by participants and results tabulated. It was determined that the student's own interest, and their perception of how homemaking will help later are influencing factors for enrollment in homemaking classes. Food preparation, getting along with others, grooming, clothing selection and construction and using new equipment properly are areas of interest to male students. The belief that homemaking is for girls, and the lack of interest in the content and activities of homemaking classes account for the low male participation. Community understanding, friendly attitudes of counselors, a well equipped department, and practical homemaking courses could attract more male participation.