Volunteer development in 4-H: Constructivist considerations to improve youth science literacy in urban areas

The 4-H Youth Development Program can play an important role in targeting improved science literacy among urban youth in the U. S. However, 4-H volunteers must be trained effectively in order to be competent in their roles as science educators, and existing methods of volunteer training in urban areas are inadequate. Lesson study, a professional development model for educators that uses a constructivist approach to learning, is a viable option. Lesson study occurs within the context of the specific learning setting, takes place incrementally over extended periods of time, and has been shown to be effective.