Promoting family learning around science represents an important opportunity to reinforce science learning during out-of-school time. Evidence suggests that parent-child discourse around science can promote inferential thinking by children and help solidify their understanding of science concepts. While teacher professional development that…

This study of students competing in the 2009 Massachusetts State Science & Engineering Fair investigates the role gender played in students' participation, choice of science field, award of prizes, and mentioning inspiring teachers. Females made up 62 percent of the participants and were more likely to enter projects in biology and in…

Examines the sources and kinds of help that students who were required to participate in science fairs considered fair and reasonable, and the kinds of help they actually received for their projects. Confirms the previously reported gap between potential and actual sources and kinds of help. Indicates that pressure of time was the most highly…

Examines the influences on research design selection and success in competition of 22 finalists at the 44th International Science and Engineering Fair. Findings show students are largely accurate in self-reports of design and interact with mentors on several levels outside influences reflect shifts in motivational orientation and success…

Uses the Theory of Planned Behavior to examine factors that predict junior high and secondary students' (n=303) attitudes toward participating in district science fair competitions, beliefs about who would approve or disapprove of participation, and perceptions of control. Results indicate that science fair entry appears to be involuntary and that…

Explores the experiences of preservice elementary teachers with science fairs, attitudes resulting from their participation in science fairs as students, and the importance of these past histories for their students. Results indicate that most teachers felt that science fairs are beneficial, but those who rated them as most worthwhile had never…

A study was conducted to determine whether their were significant differences in effects of outside facilities and resources of winners (n=69) versus nonwinners (n=169) in high school science fairs in the state of Mississippi. Results indicate that access to a university and resource dollars positively enhances chances of winning. (MDH)

Described is a teaching model for orienting the teachers to the role of facilitator and resource person during science fairing. Cites steps involved in carrying out a science project, examples of hypotheses, and illustrations of various components of a project. (RT)

Describes the approaches, advantages, and challenges of the Science Outreach program, a broad-based, coordinated effort aimed at increasing the science literacy of diverse societal groups. Discusses staff development workshops, modified science fairs, scientists in residence, grants awarded for the program, outreach to the public-at-large, and…