Hands-on STEM learning for hospitalized children and their families
Science Journeys
The 'Science Journeys' program is a fun way for kids and their families who are in the hospital to learn about their health and how their bodies work through hands-on science activities, helping them feel more connected and supported during their care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The 'Science Journeys' program aims to provide engaging, hands-on STEM learning experiences for children and families dealing with hospitalization and complex care. By utilizing their own health data, participants will explore how their bodies work, the diseases that affect them, and the role of healthcare teams in their recovery. The program incorporates experiential learning and social-emotional concepts to enhance physical, cognitive, and social development. Collaborating with Child Life Specialists and Parent Advocates, the curriculum is designed for children in grades K to eight, focusing on building STEM identity and literacy through interactive activities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are children aged 0-11 who are currently receiving inpatient or outpatient care.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently hospitalized or do not have access to outpatient care may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the educational and emotional well-being of hospitalized children and their families.
How similar studies have performed: Previous programs have shown success in engaging children in STEM learning through similar hands-on approaches, indicating a promising potential for this initiative.
Where this research is happening
Washington, United States
- Children's Research Institute — Washington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luban, Naomi L — Children's Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Luban, Naomi L
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 below.