Validating the Scientific Engineering Practices Observation Protocol (SciEPOP) for Play-Based Learning Environments

• In Event: Equity in Science Assessment and Measurement

Abstract

This paper describes the validation of the SciEPOP, an instrument designed to identify and categorize preschool children’s play-based engagements with scientific and engineering practices (SEP) that support science learning. Children are natural scientists and engineers, and while play has long been recognized as critical to their development, little research has been done to document the ways that children engage in STEM learning through self-directed play. Built on more than 120 hours of video observation data and thorough literature and theoretical analysis, we designed the SciEPOP in both paper and mobile app formats. Our study confirms that the SciEPOP is a valid and reliable tool to describe and make claims about the integrated relationship among play, STEM, and early childhood environments.

Authors

• Lauren Saenz, Q & A Consulting

• Alison Riley Miller, Bowdoin College