Exploring science with children from under-represented groups through shared interests : insights from a decade of practice

Hobbs, Laura and Behenna, Sarah and Stevens, Carly and Hartley, Calum (2026) Exploring science with children from under-represented groups through shared interests : insights from a decade of practice. Journal of Science Communication, 25 (2): 2. ISSN 1824-2049

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Abstract

Through a series of projects dating back to 2015, the Science Hunters programme has delivered eight ‘Minecraft Clubs’ to engage children with Special Educational Needs, care-experienced children, and children in low socioeconomic status areas with science, technology, engineering, and maths. Science concepts are used as themes to build around, rather than the key focus of the activity, which is communal gameplay and having fun. Delivery has been developed through reflective practice, insights from which are drawn upon to extract key takeaways for engaging children with science outside of traditional settings through community-based activities and existing interests. These include drawing on the experiences of those with relevant backgrounds in design and delivery approaches, embedding STEM content rather than making it a primary feature of the activity, seeking and incorporating participants’ input, and having alternative approaches and resources available to facilitate accommodation of different needs and circumstances.