To date, no national studies of science-focused out-of-school time (OST) programs have been implemented, making it difficult to get a sense of program diversity and characteristics. In this paper, Laursen, Thiry, Archie, and Crane map the national landscape of U.S. OST science, technology, and engineering programs. The findings allow the authors to describe a generalized profile for each of eight types of OST program providers.
Researchers have described the inquiry process as involving five Es: engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate. Designed to facilitate the process of conceptual change in science, the 5E model can help students at almost any level engage in scientific practices. This brief correlates the 5E framework outlined by Bybee and colleagues with the science practices described in the Framework for K–12 Science Education.