Building Science Capital and Science Habitus With Family Programming

• In Event: Examining Factors in the Development of Science Capital and Identity

Abstract

Research suggests that families are key to developing the science interests and career aspirations of youth. This study examined the effects of a museum-based, family science program on the participants. All participants completed a pre and post-survey, measuring self-efficacy, science experiences, perceived usefulness of science, and parents’ beliefs about science. There were no significant differences in pre/post-survey responses for the control group youth (N=40). The program significantly increased the self-efficacy and science experiences of the treatment group youth (N = 41). As parents (N = 44) engaged in the program, their cultural capital and family science habitus increased. The results of this study suggest museum-based family science programs can be an effective strategy for building family science capital and habitus.

Authors

• Megan Ennes, University of Florida

• M. Gail Jones, North Carolina State University

• Emily Cayton, Campbell University

• Gina Childers, Texas Tech University

• Katherine Chesnutt, North Carolina State University