SciPre.com_GI2-CESPU-2023-Sneaking Around Science: Promoting Health Scientific Literacy in Preschool
admin-cespu
Principal Investigator:
Patrícia Silva
Leader Institution:
CESPU
Research Team:
Patrícia Silva, Bruno Peixoto, José Carlos Caldas, Rui Azevedo, Hassan Bousbaa, Bárbara Pinto, João Silva, Diana Torres
Funding entity:
CESPU
Budget:
3.500 euros
Period covered:
2023-2025
Abstract:
In Portugal and globally, fostering scientific culture in early childhood education has gained prominence, emphasizing critical thinking, information sourcing, and inquiry skills. While some programs foster collaboration between schools and scientific entities, they overlook a crucial demographic: preschoolers aged 3-5. This developmental stage is pivotal for acquiring motor, language, and cognitive skills, with children demonstrating keen interest in science through incessant questioning, commonly termed "age of whys." Current online platforms tend to evade sensitive subjects like disease (e.g. cancer), a global health priority, or more complex topics like the concept of cell or living organism. Simplifying complex topics for young learners not only enhances their understanding but also nurtures empathy and curiosity. Equipping educators and parents with suitable tools becomes imperative. Our proposal advocates integrating sensorial activities and digital resources to immerse preschoolers in health scientific education. This approach aims to cultivate a scientifically literate generation, effectively bridging the gap between scientific domains and wider society.
In Portugal and globally, fostering scientific culture in early childhood education has gained prominence, emphasizing critical thinking, information sourcing, and inquiry skills. While some programs foster collaboration between schools and scientific entities, they overlook a crucial demographic: preschoolers aged 3-5. This developmental stage is pivotal for acquiring motor, language, and cognitive skills, with children demonstrating keen interest in science through incessant questioning, commonly termed "age of whys." Current online platforms tend to evade sensitive subjects like disease (e.g. cancer), a global health priority, or more complex topics like the concept of cell or living organism. Simplifying complex topics for young learners not only enhances their understanding but also nurtures empathy and curiosity. Equipping educators and parents with suitable tools becomes imperative. Our proposal advocates integrating sensorial activities and digital resources to immerse preschoolers in health scientific education. This approach aims to cultivate a scientifically literate generation, effectively bridging the gap between scientific domains and wider society.