CSL Call for Contributions

The editors of Connected Science Learning encourage you to submit a manuscript on any topic related to bridging in-school and out-of-school STEM learning. Although each issue is organized around a theme, your manuscript does not have to be related to a specific theme and can be of general interest to the journal's audience. In order to be considered for publication, manuscripts must adhere to the journal's submission guidelines. Connected Science Learning also features a number of columns that may be a good fit for your manuscript. Upcoming themes and column descriptions are found below.

Celebrating the Eclipse Through Collaboration

To be published in upcoming issues through March 2024

Submission Deadline: November 30, 2023

We are in store for an astronomical treat during the 2023–2024 school year. To prepare for the momentous events of two eclipses passing across vast sections of the United States with an annular solar eclipse crossing from Oregon through Texas on October 14, 2023, and a total solar eclipse that stretches from Texas to Maine following on April 8, 2024. CSL will celebrate the wonder of eclipses by publishing briefs and feature-length articles about connected learning experiences related to this momentous event throughout our upcoming issues.

Get Out! Connected Learning Experiences Without Walls

To be published July/August 2023

Submission Deadline: March 30, 2023

Learning isn’t only for the classroom! This issue features the wide variety of ways that people experience STEM in outdoor environments, whether in the city, in the country, or in the woods. We’re seeking submissions about successful program models that feature co-creation and collaboration that gets learners outside, such as citizen science, place-based learning, nature education, experiential programs, and more.

Science Competitions and Fairs

To be published September/October 2023

Submission Deadline: June 15, 2023

We've come a long way from baking soda and vinegar volcanoes! This issue explores the many ways that today's science and engineering competitions and fairs engage students as problem solvers, investigators, inventors, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

 

Word Limit

Suggested length for feature articles is 2,000 to 4,000 words, excluding references and media/supplemental material. See separate details below regarding the word limit associated with departments in the journal.

Media Components Highly Encouraged

Being an online journal, Connected Science Learning allows for all types of media to be embedded into the articles and departments. We will give preference to articles that have such supplemental material, including videos, podcasts, links to PowerPoints and websites, and other technologies.

Ongoing Connected Science Learning Departments

Connected Science Learning publishes both full-length articles (approximately 2,000-4,000 words) and Briefs (approximately 500 words). Word counts are exclusive of references, figure captions, and other media/supplemental materials. Full-length articles are published under one of the departments listed below or in a more general Feature department. 

Research to Practice, Practice to Research

Articles in this department foster a research-to-practice cycle that better connects practitioners to the growing research and knowledge base about STEM learning, and researchers to the world and needs of practitioners.

Emerging Connections

Articles in this department describe new, innovative connections between out-of-school STEM programs and preK–12 classrooms that have the potential to spread beyond the initial context, such as radio and television programs that become integral elements of classroom instruction.

Diversity and Equity

Articles in this department highlight connected STEM learning efforts that are effective at increasing participation and interest in STEM by underserved groups (e.g., minorities, low socioeconomic populations, rural communities, English language learners, special needs, and talented/gifted students). Compelling articles will include documentation of success.

The Engaged Scientist

Articles in this department highlight scientists, engineers, and other science-based professionals’ efforts to enhance connected STEM learning that engages preK–16 youth in in-school and out-of-school learning experiences.

Briefs

These are short (suggested length is 500 words) items that highlight the lessons learned, curriculum considerations, or research results related to the readers of the journal, or are short descriptions of resources (e.g., publications, videos, websites) of use to professionals interested in connecting in-school and out-of-school STEM learning.

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Click here to get submission guidelines, including how to create, prepare, and submit your contributions.

The editorial staff thanks you for considering Connected Science Learning as a venue for your ideas. We look forward to your contribution.