Who’s modeling STEM learning in children’s educational media?

Recently there has been a large increase in the number of STEM-focused educational television shows available for children, as well as a strong push for more diverse and inclusive children’s programming. The underlying assumption at play is that if children see more diverse characters on-screen engaging in STEM activities and modeling STEM interest, this will lead to broader interest and participation in STEM among racially diverse viewers. To date, there is little empirical evidence to support this assumption. Dr. Fashina Aladé will discuss a mix of quantitative and qualitative data from a content analysis of race and gender representation in children’s STEM TV as well as an interview study with parent-child dyads about what features of a STEM TV show resonate as culturally inclusive and authentic.

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