Guiding Curiosity: Nurturing Young Scientists

Wendy C. Gamble Ph.D., Sonia Cota-Robles Ph.D.

Guiding Curiosity 

Beschreibung

Guiding Curiosity: Nurturing Young Scientists equips parents and others (e.g., grandparents, uncles, aunts, nannies) with handy and easy-to-use strategies for augmenting young children's natural scientific inclinations. The book begins with an introduction to critical inquiry, a well-researched concept advocated by science educators. Science is both a body of knowledge and a way of building that knowledge and critical inquiry reflects the process of understanding by asking questions, making observations, taking measurements and experimenting. It is expected that with a brief introduction to the concept and steps of inquiry, parents will understand the "e;why"e; behind the strategies presented and, therefore, be in a better position from which to launch their own ideas for inspiring interest in all things related to science. Readers are also offered helpful tips for engaging a child's attention and keeping them focused. Understanding the fundamentals of critical inquiry is a first step, but to make it work readers are invited to learn how to join in and capitalize on their child's play. Exuberant play is an ideal "e;laboratory"e; for exploration. Culled from the authors' many years as lecturers, researchers, and parents, fascinating information on the development of young children is provided. This background information should help readers better recognize their child's emerging cognitive and language skills that will shape their play, learning and social interactions. Readers are also encouraged to consider trying new strategies for correcting misguided responses and praising correct answers. In the second part of the book, readers will find a series of activities for exploring the physical, life, and earth sciences with young children. Instructions for the activities are provided, including information on the tools or materials needed to aid discovery. The activities described can be readily introduced and are structured to guide a child's thinking through scientific processes

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