An investigation of the feasibility of extending the Primary Connections program to preschool settings.
This report looks at how to encourage and engage preschool children’s interest in science, engineering and technology with a particular focus on how to use an existing program for older children called Primary Connections.
Abstract
This report is a detailed academic examination on whether an existing school science program called ‘Primary Connections’ could be expanded from the primary sector into the preschool sector to encourage children’s interest in science, engineering and technology (SET) at an earlier age. Natural interest in science is evident in children in the years prior to school and continuing this engagement in the early years has been shown to generate deeper learning and produce significant gains in learning outcomes during the later school years. The aim of the study was to identify factors which engage preschool and primary school children in SET and to review existing programs that seek to develop science interest/engagement and basic science literacy in preschool aged children. The work was undertaken to better understand student choices and interest in these important subject areas throughout the education pipeline.
Author(s)
Prof Marilyn Fleer, Sue March, Monash University
Publication Details
| Type : |
Reports |
| Published : |
1/2008 |
Topics Covered
| Sectors : |
|
| Detailed :
|
| Adult and lifelong learning |
| Career choices |
| Early childhood education |
| Innovation in education |
| Science (general) |
| Student participation and achievement |
| Teachers and academic staff |
|
Availability
Final Report - Monash DEEWR Preschool SET Feasibility Study PDF 
(854.0 KB) RTF 
(1.9 MB)