This article reports on the development and initial validation of an inventory— Cognitions and Beliefs About Technology and Science (CABATS). Out of a literature search and content analysis, eight categories of cognitions or beliefs were developed. In Study 1, those eight components of were assessed with a confirmatory factor analysis of item responses by a sample of 635. In Study 2, the confirmatory factor analysis was duplicated and supported in a second sample of 342. In addition, the eight CABATS factor scores and demographic characteristics were applied to predicting the degree of science and technology involvement required by college majors selected by the Study 2 participants. Ethnicity, participant sex, and three of the eight CABATS factors were significant predictors of career choices, providing evidence for the predictive validity of some CABAT factors. Ideas for scale refinement are presented. The CABATS's potential for research and career-development application is outlined.
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