Exploring Active Learning Preferences of Youth and Subject Matter Experts in Library-Based Youth STEM Programming

• In Event: Rethinking Learning and Access in Community-Based Contexts

Abstract

STEM programs for youth have become a fixture in many public libraries. Many of these programs have increasingly begun to leverage the knowledge of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to better engage student participants with contextualized, real-world knowledge. Given this trend, we sought to explore 1) the different types of active learning activities library program staff and participating SMEs implement and 2) the active learning preferences of library staff, SMEs, and youth participants and whether there is congruence between these groups. A better understanding of the types of learning pedagogies employed in these programs – including preferences for employing these activities – can inform program design and wider implementation so as to more actively engage a broader range of youth with STEM.

Authors

• Claire Mitchell, Montana State University

• Angela D Skeeles-Worley, University of Virginia

• Keliann LaConte

• Paul Dusenbery, Space Science Institute

• Robert H. Tai, University of Virginia