Implementing Service-Learning Partnerships: Educating Scientists in the Present and for the Future

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to shed light on the power of partnerships between advanced college science students, K-8 students, teachers, and home-schooling parents. The pedagogical difficulties and educational opportunities of each population is explored via qualitative analysis, with an evaluation of the strengths gained by connecting the groups via a service-learning project. An emphasis on the active, discovery-based nature of science is paramount to the project, and the partnerships allowed for human development of young scientists in ways that are not always achievable through traditional academic experiences.