Identifying Hidden Capital: Parent and Youth Perceptions of Family Science Capital

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: New Directions in Informal Learning Environments Research: Families, Communities, and Careers

Abstract

Tools allow for the development of new ideas, behaviors, and creativity. Science is a field that is integrally bound to the use of tools such as microscopes or scales. Having access to science tools and resources out-of-school to investigate and explore the world has the potential to build critical science process skills as well as self-efficacy in youth. This study examined the reported tool access in the homes of elementary-aged youth (N = 45) and their parents (N = 44). Youth reported significantly less access to science-related tools (hidden capital) than their parents. Youth tool scores were also significantly correlated with their self-efficacy scores. The role of out-of-school experiences with science tools as a form of science capital is discussed.

Authors

• Megan Ennes, University of Florida

• M. Gail Jones, North Carolina State University

• Gina Childers, Texas Tech University

• Katherine Chesnutt, North Carolina State University

• Emily Cayton, Campbell University