As an instructional framework, Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can guide science teachers to purposefully apply evidence-based instructional practices to increase engagement and learning of students with disabilities (Israel, Ribuffo, and Smith 2014; Marino et al. 2014; Ok et al. 2016). This article describes how to use the Universal Design…

Learning celebrations are increasingly common in schools looking to put more emphasis on community and efficacy in place formulaic science fair projects. The celebration aspect is in the community's participation and interaction with the learners. Students are the main event, performing as they would in a school play or applying acquired knowledge…

An outdoor classroom is the ideal vehicle for community involvement: Parents, native plant societies, 4-H, garden clubs, and master naturalists are all resources waiting to be tapped, as are local businesses offering support. If you enlist your community in the development and maintenance of your outdoor classroom, the entire community will…

Outdoor learning areas are becoming more popular as a means for community-based, cross-curricular learning where children study issues of local relevance (Sobel 2004). Outdoor learning areas, any place outside of the school building where children can observe and interact with the natural world around them, include outdoor structures for seating…

For the past five years, teachers from four Houston-area school districts have joined together in a professional learning community (PLC) to improve their science teaching. Through the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) Regional Collaborative for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching, the teachers strengthen content knowledge and…

Boulder Creek runs literally in the backyard of Donnelly Elementary School and happens to be on the EPA list of impaired water bodies. Therefore, a unique opportunity for problem solving opened the door to an exciting chance for students to become scientists, while also becoming active in their community. With the help of the Idaho Department of…

Students discover science resources in their neighborhood that help them see the relevance and long-term applications of concepts learned in the classroom. Students explore people, objects, and geographic resources beginning in the school and extending out into the community. (MDH)

The Hoonton PARKnership is a cooperative learning program that pairs a public elementary school and a state park to involve students of all abilities in exciting, interactive outdoor learning adventures. In the program, students learn about their local environment--both in the classroom and through field trips to the park--and complete projects to…

Describes collaborative efforts where museums and community organizations encourage family involvement in science, including the Girls at the Center (GAC) and Community Connections programs. Discusses challenges, strengths of partnerships, outreach efforts, and museum-based events. Contains 12 references. (JRH)

Described are ways in which children with the help of their parents and community can get involved with recycling, energy conservation, composting, and picking up litter. Environmental student projects on water conservation, planting trees, and Earth Day pledges are included. (KR)

Describes the SCI-FEST (Science Collaborative Initiative-Festival to Enhance Science and Technology) where community members worked together to put on a successful science festival for the whole family. Discusses the planning and implementation of the festival which included nearly 100 hands-on science activities, skits, puppet shows, and…