Summer Brain Gains: Research on a Place-Conscious STEM and Humanities Enrichment Experience for Rural Leaners

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Friday 3:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Shifting Demographics and Policy in Rural and Suburban Contexts

Abstract

Grounded in place-conscious pedagogy and rural cultural wealth framework, the summer enrichment experience at [college] is a week-long residential experience for gifted and talented, rural middle school learners. Over four summers, rural learners have engaged in a variety of STEM and humanities courses designed to leverage the nexus of place, environment, and culture. This case study queried how the place-conscious pedagogy was implemented and how rural learners engaged with that curriculum. After analyzing enrichment plans, field notes, and student artifacts, we identified three preliminary understandings: rural familiarly was heavily incorporated, ingenuity with problem-solving activities was highlighted, and rural knowledge as a source of wealth was uplifted. These understandings provide future possibilities of place-conscious pedagogy being implemented across various educational spaces.

Authors

• Clint D. Whitten, Virginia Tech

• Annie Shaba, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

• Amy Price Azano, Virginia Tech