About
Prof. Dr. Mirjam Steffensky is a Full Professor of Education Chemistry Didactics at the University of Hamburg's Faculty of Education, Department EW 5 (Didactics of Social Sciences and Mathematics and Natural Sciences). She leads research in early science education, science teaching methods, and educational psychology. Her work emphasizes home learning environments, teacher professional development, and teaching quality assessment. Since 2020, she has held a W3 professorship, following roles including a W2 professorship at the Leibniz Institute (2010–2020) and a DTS Foundation professorship in Münster (2008–2010).
- Education: PhD in Chemistry (University of Hamburg, 2000), studies at Newcastle University, UK.
- Expertise: Early childhood science education, international comparisons (TIMSS), and teacher training.
Research Interests: Her research focuses on how family interactions and teaching practices shape children's science learning. She investigates the role of instructional support, science talk, and home environments in fostering scientific inquiry skills. Her work bridges theory and practice through interventions and curriculum design.
Scientific Contributions: Over 89 publications, including studies on teaching quality, home learning environments, and professional development for educators. She leads national and international projects like TIMSS and chairs committees such as the Stiftung Kinder Forschen advisory board.
Grants & Collaborations: Active in research projects funded by organizations like the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Youth Institute. Leads educational initiatives promoting science literacy in early childhood and primary education.
