Scaling Up Research on Family Involvement in Science Learning

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 1
  In Poster Session: Conditions for Out-of-School Time Effectiveness

Abstract

The home is widely recognized as a critical leverage point in a child’s science learning. However, studies show parent involvement skews heavily towards reading and mathematics; many parent involvement studies do not specifically address science. Studies connecting parent involvement to science learning outcomes are limited to studies with small sample sizes or limited data collection. This paper describes take-home science activities used in a large-scale, longitudinal randomized control trial study investigating science teaching and learning in the middle grades. The Family Involvement in Science kits integrate innovative triangulated data collection mechanisms into an evidence-based design. Early findings reflect an increase in the quantity of data collected at a scale not reflected in prior studies.

Authors

• Allison Margaret Esparza, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Kenneth John Fleming, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Cindy Lynn Guerrero, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Beverly J. Irby, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Rafael Lara-Alecio, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Fuhui Tong, Texas A&M University - College Station