Amplifying Informal Science Learning

Amplifying Informal Science Learning PDF

Author: Judy Diamond

Publisher: Taylor & Francis

Published: 2023-06-30

Total Pages: 388

ISBN-13: 1000901777

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This collection explores the broad landscape of current and future out-of-school science learning environments. Written by leading experts and innovators in informal science learning, these thoughtful and critical essays examine the changing nature of informal institutions such as science museums, zoos, nature centers, planetariums, aquaria, and botanical gardens and their impact on science education. The book examines the learning opportunities and challenges created by community-based experiences including citizen science, makerspaces, science media, escape rooms, hobby groups, and gaming. Based on current practices, case studies, and research, the book focuses on four cross-cutting themes – inclusivity, digital engagement, community partnerships, and bridging formal and informal learning – to examine how people learn science informally. The book will be of interest to STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) educators – both in and out of school – designers of science and experiential education programs, and those interested in building STEM learning ecosystems in their communities.

Surrounded by Science

Surrounded by Science PDF

Author: National Research Council

Publisher: National Academies Press

Published: 2010-04-03

Total Pages: 241

ISBN-13: 0309136741

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Practitioners in informal science settings-museums, after-school programs, science and technology centers, media enterprises, libraries, aquariums, zoos, and botanical gardens-are interested in finding out what learning looks like, how to measure it, and what they can do to ensure that people of all ages, from different backgrounds and cultures, have a positive learning experience. Surrounded by Science: Learning Science in Informal Environments, is designed to make that task easier. Based on the National Research Council study, Learning Science in Informal Environments: People, Places, and Pursuits, this book is a tool that provides case studies, illustrative examples, and probing questions for practitioners. In short, this book makes valuable research accessible to those working in informal science: educators, museum professionals, university faculty, youth leaders, media specialists, publishers, broadcast journalists, and many others.

Intersections of Formal and Informal Science

Intersections of Formal and Informal Science PDF

Author: Lucy Avraamidou

Publisher: Routledge

Published: 2016-03-10

Total Pages: 268

ISBN-13: 1317361040

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Science learning that takes place between and at the intersections of formal and informal science environments has not been systematically reviewed to offer a comprehensive understanding of the existing knowledge base. Bringing together theory and research, this volume describes the various ways in which learning science in various settings has been conceptualized as well as empirical evidence to illustrate how science learning in these settings can be supported.

Community Connections for Science Education

Community Connections for Science Education PDF

Author: Phyllis Katz

Publisher: NSTA Press

Published: 2001

Total Pages: 129

ISBN-13: 0873551923

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Science beyond the schoolhouse is the subject of this close-up look at informal science education in non-traditional settings, including Boys & Girls Clubs, 4-H, zoos, aquariums, and even public TV. More than a dozen writers draw on personal experience to tell why they became informal science educators and how they use the history and theory of traditional science education in their work. Among the book's features for informal science educators are a resource directory and a special section on program evaluation.

Teacher Learning and Informal Science Education

Teacher Learning and Informal Science Education PDF

Author: Jennifer D. Adams

Publisher: Peter Lang Publishing

Published: 2024

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781636672823

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"This book is situated in a study of learning to teach science, informal science education and identity. The study initially aimed to learn how teachers' identities were influenced by teacher learning experiences in informal science institutions and sites. What emerged was how teachers transformed meanings, pedagogies and applications of informal science in ways that both resonated with their identities as teachers and social agents as well as the identities and needs of their students. This book emphasizes the teaching and learning of racialized students as well as highlight the experiences of similarly racialized teachers. However, what emerges are lessons for educators who are committed to authentically enacting equity in learning spaces; that is learning that is attentive to and affirming of students' and teachers' identities and desirings to utilize education as a tool to create imaginations of alternative futures. This is critical if we are to move towards planetary well-being. This book will highlight salient aspects of the research and offer examples of teacher enactments and frameworks for designing professional development and learning experiences that afford critical awareness, creativity and culturally affirming science education both in formal and informal contexts"--

Activity Theory in Formal and Informal Science Education

Activity Theory in Formal and Informal Science Education PDF

Author: Katerina Plakitsi

Publisher: Brill / Sense

Published: 2013

Total Pages: 253

ISBN-13: 9789460913167

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The purpose of this book is to establish a broader context for rethinking science learning and teaching by using cultural historical activity theoretic approach. Activity theory already steps in its third generation and only a few works have been done on its applications to science education, especially in Europe. The context takes into account more recent developments in activity theory applications in US, Canada, Australia and Europe. The chapters articulate new ways of thinking about learning and teaching science i.e., new theoretical perspectives and some case studies of teaching important scientific topics in/for compulsory education. The ultimate purpose of each chapter and the collective book as a whole is to prepare the ground upon which a new pedagogy in science education can be emerged to provide more encompassing theoretical frameworks that allow us to capture the complexity of science learning and teaching as it occurs in and out-of schools. The book captures the dialogic and interactive nature of the transferring the activity theory to both formal and informal science education. It also contributes to the development of innovative curricula, school science textbooks, educational programs and ICT's materials. As a whole, the book moves theorizing and practicing of science education into new face and uncharted terrain. It is recommended to new scholars and researchers as well as teachers/researchers.

Change Agents in Science Education

Change Agents in Science Education PDF

Author: Sumi Hagiwara

Publisher: Sense Publishers

Published: 2006

Total Pages: 163

ISBN-13: 9077874828

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In this engaging and well crafted book, Change Agents in Science Education situates the science educator in dynamic social, political, and cultural environments where individuals are engaged in science for change. A wide range of educational contexts are described in the book, including urban school settings in the U. S., slum communities in Mumbai, India, an agricultural community in Benin, Africa, a children's educational television program production company in the U. S. In each context, powerful examples of how science was enacted to transform ways of thinking and doing are demonstrated. Each contributor shares experiences with science, and the challenges, triumphs and lessons learned which need to be considered and addressed as part of the role of the science educator. Change, it is argued, needs to be facilitated on a variety of levels in order for learning to take place. Science educators working in a wide range of settings, community-based educational groups, and students and researchers interested in formal and informal science education, will benefit from the perspectives provided in this book.