Defining and Observing Families' Epistemic Agency During Science Center Visits

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual Poster Session: SIG-Informal Learning Environment Research Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

Supporting learners’ agency in constructing and using STEM knowledge is critical not only for fostering deeper learning, but also for making STEM education more equitable and inclusive. Informal learning environments like museums and science centers often prioritize agency within hands-on and interactive learning experiences, but few studies have defined what agency looks like within these spaces. The current study uses theoretical understandings of epistemic agency as a lens for understanding families’ experiences in science centers. A team of researchers, exhibit designers, educators, and museum facilitators collaboratively generated a working definition of agency in the context of families’ science center visits, and created a reflection tool to help museum practitioners notice observable aspects of agency in families’ interactions at STEM exhibits.

Authors

• Susan M. Letourneau, New York Hall of Science
  Presenting Author

• Dana Schloss, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Sylvia Perez, The New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Yessenia Argudo, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Michael Baburyan, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Kate Curto, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Edwin Gomez, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Truck McDonald, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Satbir Multani, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Trevor Taylor, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Samantha Tumolo, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author

• Laycca Umer, New York Hall of Science
  Non-Presenting Author