A program to improve science learning in young children through storytelling in libraries
Official title: LEARN Science: A K-2 Life Science and Reading Program in Public Libraries to Improve Science Achievement through Storytelling
Funded at University of Mississippi · NIH-10884046 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about helping young kids from low-income families learn more about science and nutrition by using fun activities and stories at public libraries, so they can stay healthy and do better in school.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Mississippi NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $269,252 |
| NIH project number | 1R25GM154346-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10884046 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this program are children aged 5 to 8 years old, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Children who are not in the K-2 age range or those who do not have access to public libraries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing science achievement among economically disadvantaged children in kindergarten through 2nd grade by utilizing public libraries as informal education settings. The program, LEARN Science, integrates life science and reading with a focus on nutrition education, aiming to empower children with knowledge that can prevent chronic diseases. By engaging children in storytelling and hands-on activities related to food and health, the initiative seeks to bridge educational gaps and promote better health outcomes. The program aligns with established science standards to ensure effective learning.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve science literacy and health awareness among young children, leading to better educational and health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Similar initiatives utilizing informal education in libraries have shown promise in improving literacy and science achievement, indicating a potential for success with this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Mississippi
University, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holben, David H — University of Mississippi
- Study coordinator: Holben, David H
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.