ERIC Number: EJ1178902
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018-Jun
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1053-8259
EISSN: N/A
Using Culturally Relevant Experiential Education to Enhance Urban Children's Knowledge and Engagement in Science
Djonko-Moore, Cara M.; Leonard, Jacqueline; Holifield, Quintaniay; Bailey, Elsa B.; Almughyirah, Sultan M.
Journal of Experiential Education, v41 n2 p137-153 Jun 2018
Background: Children living in urban areas often have limited opportunities to experience informal science environments. As a result, some do not have a deep understanding of the environment, natural resources, ecosystems, and the ways human activities affect nature. Purpose: This article examines how experiential science education supported urban children's science knowledge and engagement through cultural relevance and eco-justice during a 1-week summer camp. Methodology/Approach: Third- through sixth-grade children from African American and Latinx urban communities in Colorado participated in a weeklong program using experiential learning opportunities including environmental and climate change lessons, activities at a local community-based site, and field trips to nature- and science-themed sites. Pre- and posttests, focus group interviews, journals, and student work samples were analyzed. Findings/Conclusions: Children's science content knowledge as well as their engagement in science lessons and field trips were positively influenced during the study. Implications: This study provides a template for establishing culturally relevant experiential learning opportunities to engage underrepresented children in science.
Descriptors: Culturally Relevant Education, Experiential Learning, Urban Schools, Knowledge Level, Learner Engagement, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, African American Students, Hispanic American Students, Environmental Education, Pretests Posttests, Focus Groups, Student Journals, Summer Programs, Science Education, Mixed Methods Research, Field Trips
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Grade 3
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Colorado
Grant or Contract Numbers: GEO1260957