Abstract
Engaging in science at an early age cultivates foundational mindsets and practices for future learning, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and curiosity (CitationHadani and Rood 2018; CitationMcClure 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 (CitationDeWitt, Archer, and Mau 2016; CitationRennie 2017). Informal institutions, such as museums, are uniquely positioned to act as partners in supporting early childhood science learning.
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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.