Exploring the Important Factors of Informal Science Education Program of Youth in Poverty: A Case Study of Informal Earth Science Education Program in the U.S.

Abstract

Department of Curriculum and Instruction, University of Minnesota, Minnesota, 55108, USAAbstract: There has been increasing evidence of the positive effects in informal science programs to promote the youths’positive development. However, relatively a small number of informal science programs target specific student populationssuch as youth in poverty with little research done about the important program factors. This case study presents anexemplary informal science education program (focusing on Earth Science Education or more specifically, water in urbanenvironments) for youth in poverty in a midwest city of the United States. This study explored the most importantcharacteristics of the program that could lead to positive development for the youth. Through a number of observations ofthe program and interviews with the participants, this study employs inductive and interpretive research methods. Findingsshow that the program managers’ beliefs about the youths’ knowledge and experiences, their relationship building skills,and their cooperative work are very important. A concrete mission for the program and structured institutional support tohire the youth as paid museum staff are also important in assuming their responsibility and building identity as an activesocial member. Keywords: Informal science education, Youth development, Out-of-school science programs for youth in poverty