A Tale of Two Partnership Models

Graphical Abstract

Abstract

Engaging in science at an early age cultivates foundational mindsets and practices for future learning, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and curiosity (Hadani and Rood 2018; McClure et al. 2017). Science learning can be robust for young children when it occurs in a variety of settings (i.e., at home, at school, etc.) and with the support of significant figures in their lives such as teachers, parents, and other family members. In addition to parents and families collaborating in both home and school environments, out-of-school settings offer science learning opportunities that have been shown to promote students’ interest and motivation in science and their science capital. Science capital refers to the multiple dimensions of a learner’s knowledge about and attitude toward science that influences his/her identity and participation in science (DeWitt, Archer, and Mau 2016; Rennie 2017). Informal institutions, such as museums, are uniquely positioned to act as partners in supporting early childhood science learning.

Keywords:

• Informal Education

Notes on contributors section

Jenny Ingber ([email protected]) is the director of children and family learning at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, New York.

Jacqueline Horgan ([email protected]) is a senior coordinator in the Science and Nature Program at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, New York.

Veena Vasudevan ([email protected]) is a postdoctoral associate at New York University Steinhardt School of Education in New York, New York.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jenny Ingber

Jenny Ingber ([email protected]) is the director of children and family learning at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, New York.

Jacqueline Horgan

Jacqueline Horgan ([email protected]) is a senior coordinator in the Science and Nature Program at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, New York.

Veena Vasudevan

Veena Vasudevan ([email protected]) is a postdoctoral associate at New York University Steinhardt School of Education in New York, New York.