A-level subject choice is strongly influenced by genes, scientists say [View all]

[AngryAmish]

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2016/jun/16/a-level-subject-choice-is-strongly-influenced-by-genes-scientists-say

Students choices when it comes to A-level subjects could largely be down to genetics, a new study suggests.

Scientists say that up to 80% of students’ choices of A-level subjects is down to genetic influence with environmental factors such as home life, accounting for 23% of the choice at most.

The authors claim that the findings support the idea that children should have greater choice in what they study during their school years, together with a more personalised approach to their education.

“We are really arguing that individuals can actively choose and create their own educational experiences partly based on their genetic propensities,” said Kaili Rimfeld, first author of the study from King’s College, London.