Narratives of Female Informal Educators' Personal Practical Knowledge

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

Abstract

Informal learning environments have the potential to play a significant role in promoting the participation of girls and women in mathematics/STEM fields. However, little is known about informal educators’ lived experiences in facilitating girls’ learning. Based on four years of working alongside Laura, the founder of a girls-only STEM club, I conducted a narrative inquiry that explored two informal educators’ experiences in leading the club. The exploration focused on the two informal educators’ narratives of their personal and professional experiences that shaped their identity as informal educators. Specifically, these experiences are valued as teacher knowledge that informs informal education that provides alternative curricula to engage girls in STEM.

Author

• Lili Zhou, California State University - Los Angeles
  Presenting Author