Investigating Hispanic Families’ Utilization of Scientific Strategies and Practices in Take-Home Science Activities (Poster 41)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Thursday 1:45 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Innovative Designs and Novel Lines of Inquiry in Formal and Informal Learning Environments

Abstract

In alignment with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Family Involvement in Science (FIS) activities were developed to promote parent engagement in fifth-grade students’ science learning at home. Students and parents were encouraged to use wearable video-recording glasses to record during these activities. The recordings were collected, transcribed, and coded using two coding schemes. Findings showed Hispanic children and their parents in rural Texas often took turns leading the scientific inquiry, using household supplies for hands-on activities, and applying science concepts and vocabulary. They employed literacy-infused strategies such as reading scaffolds and academic language scaffolding in doing science. Additionally, they demonstrated scientific behaviors such as making observations, referencing prior knowledge, and making real-world connections.

Authors

• Henan Zhang, Texas A&M University

• Rafael Lara-Alecio, Texas A&M University

• Fuhui Tong, Texas A&M University

• Beverly J. Irby, Texas A&M University