It Runs in the Family

The Role of Family and Extended Social Networks in Developing Early Science Interest

Bibliographic Data

ID20360581
AuthorsDevasmita Chakraverty (0000-0003-4399-5004, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, corresponding author), Sarah N Newcomer (Washington State University, Tricities, WA, USA), Kelly Puzio (0000-0003-2838-6374, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA), Robert H Tai (0000-0002-2804-2822, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA)
Year2018
Volume38
Issue3-4
Pages27-38
Publication date2018-10-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueBulletin of Science Technology & Society (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0270-4676 • E-ISSN: 1552-4183
PublisherSAGE Publications (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0270467620911589
OpenAlexW3010765333
LanguageEN
Citations received5
References cited41

Research shows that early scientific interest is associated with science degree completion and career selection. However, little is known about the conditions that support early scientific interest. Using a “funds of knowledge” theoretical framework, this study examined the role of parents, family, and extended social networks in fostering early interest in science. Using interview narratives from 116 scientists (physicists and chemists) in the United States, we conducted a qualitative thematic content analysis. Findings suggest that children who become scientists in adulthood often received early, informal opportunities to use and manipulate material objects and discover how the world works. Second, families used a wide variety of scientific terms at home and encouraged children to pursue their interests whether in science or other fields. Third, these future scientists were often networked with extended family members or friends to observe and do science when they were quite young. Collectively, these findings highlight the specific ways in which families fostered early scientific interest and aided in supporting a student-directed learning environment

Narrative · Qualitative research · Social science · Sociology · Thematic analysis · Career Development and Diversity · Computer Science · Psychology · Science Education and Pedagogy · Science Education and Perceptions

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