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Research Case Study

Science Learning with Hero Elementary: Accessible Blended Learning Resources to Reach All Students

July 31, 2021 | Media and Technology, Public Programs

Hero Elementary is a transmedia educational initiative aimed at improving the school readiness and academic achievement in science and literacy of children grades K-2. With an emphasis on Latinx communities, English Language Learners, youth with disabilities, and children from low-income households, Hero Elementary celebrates kids and encourages them to make a difference in their own backyards and beyond by actively doing science and using their Superpowers of Science. The content is aligned with NGSS and CCSS-ELA for K–2.

This report describes a case study that examines the design and use of Hero Elementary science resources with K–2 elementary students representing a broad diversity of abilities and cultural identities, including students identified as having moderate cognitive disabilities, English learners, and socioeconomically disadvantaged students. The report examines how these digital and blended resources, designed with equity and accessibility in mind, can support science and literacy learning for students representing a range of backgrounds and identities.

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Betsy McCarthy
    Author
    WestEd
  • Daniel Brenner
    Author
    WestEd
  • Claire Morgan
    Author
    WestEd
  • Joan Freese
    Principal Investigator
    TPT (Twin Cities PBS)
  • Momoko Hayakawa
    Project Staff
    TPT (Twin Cities PBS)
  • Citation

    Funders

    ED
    Funding Program: Ready to Learn
    Award Number: U295A150012-17
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: Education and learning science | General STEM
    Audience: Elementary School Children (6-10) | Educators/Teachers | Museum/ISE Professionals | Learning Researchers
    Environment Type: Media and Technology | Websites, Mobile Apps, and Online Media | Public Programs | Afterschool Programs
    Access and Inclusion: Ethnic/Racial | Hispanic/Latinx Communities | People with Disabilities | English Language Learners | Low Socioeconomic Status

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