Date of Award

12-26-2007

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Teaching & Learning

First Advisor

Glenn Olsen

Abstract

The use of information books in the preschool classroom, and the potential of the books and the learning activities associated with the books for promoting science among young children are explored. The research was first conducted with four children at a university children's center, and then replicated in a whole class setting at a college child development lab school in another state. Using qualitative procedures the study produced several grounded theories which led to the assertion that preschoolers, independently of their teachers, select information books according to their developmental interests, and use the books for exploring scientific concepts, and to enhance their emergent literacy skills. Several areas for further research in this area are suggested. Educational implications for the use of information books, as well as for promoting science among young children, are offered.

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