The authors of “Psychological insights for improved physics teaching” made some good points, but I think an equally important factor affecting classroom success is the image of scientists in popular culture. Scientists are generally shown as either antisocial eccentrics or brilliant adventurers. Who wouldn’t like to lead the life of Indiana Jones, an exceptional archaeologist who somehow, in his exciting and adventurous life, took time out to do the dull work of actually studying his subject?

According to the popular stereotype, successful scientists are so bright that everything comes easily to them. The assumed corollary is damning: A student who doesn’t understand something immediately will never be successful as a scientist.

Even the brilliant Richard Feynman, though, had to work hard in his field. Unfortunately, he never stressed that fact in his own books. I guess his editor felt that describing in detail all the time he spent on his work would make his books too dull for popular reading.

Although Indiana Jones is a purely fictional character, his image can still have a strong effect on young people. The message that science is easy (for geniuses) and exciting can be found everywhere, including in science- oriented television programs like NOVA and Cosmos, where only the results of learning are discussed, but never the hard work.

Perhaps it is time to show that real academic work is necessary and that one doesn’t have to be a genius to be successful. A reasonable level of intelligence together with a willingness to work hard can lead to a satisfying career even if it doesn’t lead to the Nobel Prize or a popular television program.