What's the Story? Narrative Types in K–12 Science Learning Environments (Poster 15)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Three
  In Poster Session: Division C Science Poster Session Two

Abstract

To motivate and engage students in science learning, stories are used by K-12 educators to contextualize various learning objectives . By discussing thirty-eight empirical studies from the database ERIC, this preliminary literature review shows that (1) authentic narratives, (2) realistic fiction, and (3) science fiction and fantasy are used as instruction materials or settings. To involve students as roles in the story plot, some of the narratives assign students as problem investigators or service providers to complete tasks. The categorization presents how the stories are used in K-12 science learning environments and how students are positioned in them. Based on the findings, future research will further investigate the relationship between students’ learning outcomes and the effective features of narrative.

Authors

• Tianshu Wang, Indiana University
  Presenting Author

• Suraj Uttamchandani, Adelphi University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Cindy E. Hmelo-Silver, Indiana University
  Non-Presenting Author

• Jonathan Rowe, North Carolina State University
  Non-Presenting Author

• James C. Lester, North Carolina State University
  Non-Presenting Author