Youth Science Learning as/for Community Participation: Examples from Youth Participatory Action Research

Youth development programs often provide young people with science learning experiences. We argue for reframing youth from a focus on individual scientific literacy to an emphasis collective literacy—community science—to support in using address issues their lives and communities. examples participatory action research (YPAR), one community pedagogical approach. The YPAR model supports deciding upon environmental, economic, or social issue; designing implementing research; findings improve community. implemented eight cohorts of over three years at five schools Northern California. Using data generated educator interviews groups analyzed inductive thematic analysis, we explored what educators reported about engagement learning. While projects offered opportunities strengthen literacy, did not join program because it was education. Instead, as selected personally meaningful topic, they began see how might affect change. Engaging learners relevant educational experiences situated authentic may motivation deeper sustained participation Our example demonstrated approach STEM by ensuring relevancy connection