Engaging Science Students Emotionally by Fostering Positive Social Bonds

This project presents an innovative investigation into the interplay between social bonds (social and emotional connections) and science learning. In the last 15 years, the study of emotion has become a sub-field of science education complementing and extending past research focused on cognition. My project extends this science emotion sub-field in new directions by focusing on the durable bonds that form between students and students and teachers in science classrooms. Through creative use of student and teacher diaries as self-report research method and classroom reflection tools, I seek to support students and teachers in fostering effective bonds that enhance science learning. This research has so far produced methodological innovations, theoretical developments and practical implications for science learning particularly focusing on science inquiry. Two state high schools are participating in the project.