E-STEM in Practice: Examining the Role of Science in Supporting Young Children's Environmental Learning

• In Event: 42.083 - Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: 42.083-23 - The Role of Science in Eary Childhood Education

Abstract

This study highlights environmental learning opportunities afforded by science learning practices in everyday contexts in early years. It offers insight into understanding how young children’s scientific learning takes place in informal settings like home, playgrounds and community activities. Quality educational input during child’s early life has shown sustained long-term social and educational opportunities. Gaining understandings about how scientific learning is organized within and across cultural contexts, enhancing potential for environmental and sustainability learning, providing much needed empirical base for supporting new directions for early childhood science and sustainability teaching. This study speaks directly to the foundational building of human capital in homes and communities, where outcomes may create: greater engagement, richer links with science-sustainability and scientific literate environmentally conscious population.

Authors

• Sylvia Christine Almeida, Monash University

• Marilyn Fleer, Monash University