# CAREER: Supporting Metacognition to Strengthen Early Childhood Science Teaching and Learning in Rural Idaho

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · Regents of the University of Idaho (ID) · $1,462,768

## Abstract

Preschool and kindergarten-aged children are still developing the skills needed to reflect on and manage their own thinking, a process often referred to as metacognition. Without strategic support from their teachers, young children may struggle to make sense of inquiry-based science activities and possibly form enduring misconceptions that may hamper future science learning. Yet, many teachers are unfamiliar with the metacognitive processes or how to intentionally facilitate their development. This project explores both how to improve early childhood teachers' understanding of metacognition and develop strategies to guide teachers in using language and feedback to more effectively support emerging metacognition and science learning in young children. Working with teachers and children in rural Idaho, the project includes classroom observations, experimental studies on teacher-child interaction, and the development of a professional development program designed to help teachers strengthen young children's reasoning and reflection. The findings will contribute to improving science instruction in early childhood and offer practical guidance for teacher education and professional learning.

The project includes three interconnected research studies designed to explore and enhance how early childhood teachers support young children's science learning through metacognitive development. Study 1 will assess current science instruction in rural Idaho classrooms by collecting dat

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2441530
- **Awardee organization:** Regents of the University of Idaho (ID)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** QWYKRJH5NNJ3
- **PI:** Shiyi Chen
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev, Rural as Research Focus, STEM Learning & Learning Environments, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $1,462,768
- **Funds obligated:** $1,462,768
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2030

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2441530

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2441530, CAREER: Supporting Metacognition to Strengthen Early Childhood Science Teaching and Learning in Rural Idaho. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2441530. Licensed CC0.

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