Engaging underserved audiences in informal science education through community-based partnerships
Date
2012
Authors
Bouzo, Suzanne, author
Bruyere, Brett, advisor
Teel, Tara, committee member
Jennings, Louise, committee member
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Abstract
This thesis explores the impact of the Science Education and Engagement of Denver (SEED) Partnership on three of its participant families. The partnership, consisting of large informal science organizations, as well as small community-based organizations, created its programming based on prior research identifying barriers to minority participation in informal science education programs. SEED aims to engage youth and families of emerging populations in science and nature. Three families were examined as a case study to have an in depth investigation about their involvement in the programs sponsored by the partnership. Findings suggest a positive impact on participant feelings and engagement in science and nature. Future recommendations are made for furthering programming as well as conducting a larger scale, more comprehensive program evaluation. This research addresses prior studies that have identified several barriers toward participation of underserved audiences in informal science education programs and how the SEED partnership has addressed specific identified barriers.
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Rights Access
Subject
community-based
evaluation
informal science education
minorities
partnership
underserved