Molly Community Science Project: Scale-Up Evaluation of the Molly’s Salmon Protector Camp Prototype (executive summary)

The Molly Community Science project, a collaborative research and design initiative involving rural Alaskan communities, educators, researchers, media producers, and cultural advisors to support STEM education grounded in Alaska Native culture, developed an engaging, place based, culturally responsive educational camp that supports environmental science learning for children aged 6 to 8 in rural Alaska Native communities. The prototype, Molly’s Salmon Protector Camp, leverages a multimedia approach and the popularity of the PBS KIDS series, Molly of Denali to engage children in science learning while centering Alaska Native values and practices.

Using a principles-based framework (Patton, 2018), this report assesses how effectively the prototype curriculum and materials developed for Molly’s Salmon Protector Camp align with and support the goals of the Molly Community Science project’s co-design efforts. The
framework’s guiding principles are listed below.

• Supports the development of environmental identity/stewardship
• Supports intergenerational learning
• Supports learning about potential science careers
• Braids Indigenous science content and Western science content together while supporting Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing
• Reflects local and culturally meaningful topics, traditions, and knowledge
• Incorporates innovative uses of technology to promote learning, including:
• Videos that introduce science topics, provide role models, and act as a springboard for hands-on activities
• An app that helps children document and share their experiences with others
• Leverages the popularity, appeal, and educational approach of Molly of Denali
• Leverages existing community assets and partnerships