Entomologists in the K-12 Classroom: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Science Education
• Public Engagement

Background:

• Public engagement is vital in science, particularly entomology.
• K-12 entomology outreach is less studied than agricultural extension.
• Existing research focuses on specific public groups, not educational settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize entomology outreach in K-12 settings.
• To identify areas for enhancing entomology K-12 engagement.
• To synthesize findings for practical improvement strategies.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a systematic scoping review.
• Searched five academic databases.
• Analyzed 42 relevant publications.

Main Results:

• K-12 entomology outreach is often reflective and published in education journals.
• Intervention evaluations are rarely included in published efforts.
• Outreach activities show limited consideration of diversity and inclusion.

Conclusions:

• Enhance K-12 entomology outreach by publishing in entomology-focused journals.
• Incorporate non-academic authors and evaluate interventions rigorously.
• Include student data and address diversity and inclusion in outreach design.