Improving County-Based Science Programs: Bringing Out the Science Teacher in Your Volunteer Leaders

Authors

Martin H. Smith, University of California- DavisFollow
Cheryl L. Meehan, University of California- DavisFollow
Richard P. Enfield, University of California Cooperative Extension, San Luis Obispo CountyFollow
Jeanette L. George, University of California Cooperative Extension, Tehama and Glenn CountiesFollow

Volume

42

Issue

6

Abstract

4-H programs can play an important role in increasing children's exposure to, and interest in, science. To be effective, however, specialized training for volunteer leaders is needed. A method of training adult volunteer leaders to train 4-H teens to be cross-age teachers of an inquiry-based science program was designed and evaluated. Key components of this method were specific scaffolding strategies, including modeling, coaching, effective questioning, promoting group interactions, and encouraging independent investigation and thinking. Data from focus group interviews and quantitative measures showed improvement at all levels of project involvement: Adult volunteer leaders, 4-H teens, and participating 4-H youth.

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Recommended Citation

Smith, M. H., Meehan, C. L., Enfield, R. P., & George, J. L. (2004). Improving County-Based Science Programs: Bringing Out the Science Teacher in Your Volunteer Leaders. The Journal of Extension, 42(6), Article 8. https://tigerprints.clemson.edu/joe/vol42/iss6/8