Piloting Science Enrichment Programs for Latina Fifth and Sixth Graders and Their Parents

• In Event: Creating Equity-Oriented Learning Environments

Abstract

This pilot research project evaluates the efficacy of two parallel enrichment programs for 5th and 6th grade Latina girls and their parents with goals of (a) increasing interest in science and (b) aiding families in supporting their daughters in science. For seven weeks, families participated in either a gardening or rocketry program. During each 2.5 hour session they completed Family Problem-Based Learning Activities and Conversation Groups (parents and girls separately, discussing relevant science topics). Pre- and post-surveys analyses indicate that the enrichment programs had significant benefits for both the parents and daughters. In order to explore additional impacts of the enrichment programs, behavioral data from the recorded parent-child interactions during the hands-on science activities will be analyzed qualitatively.

Authors

• Katherine Short-Meyerson, University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
  Presenting Author

• Peter Rillero
  Presenting Author

• Margarita Jimenez-Silva, University of California - Davis
  Presenting Author

• Peter Matthiew Meyerson, University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
  Presenting Author

• Delaney Ketchum, University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
  Non-Presenting Author