This study aimed to investigate the effects of the applications conducted in the science center within the scope of the science lesson "Solar System and Beyond" unit of the 7th-grade students in the secondary school, on the perceptions of the students about the out-of-school learning environments (OSLEs). In the quantitative part of the…

The aim of this study is to determine preschool teachers' science education activities, problems they encounter and solutions they devise, and methods and techniques they use during those activities. Phenomenology, which is a qualitative research design, was used. The study sample consisted of 15 female preschool teachers of primary schools in the…

This research investigates the social learning affordances of a room-sized, immersive, and interactive augmented reality simulation environment designed to support children's understanding of basic physics concepts in a science center. Conversations between 97 parent-child pairs were analyzed in relation to categories of talk through which…

This study is about the effect of the Our World exhibit at a science center on student visitors. It elicits students' views about the exhibits, zones, and activities, along with their level of interest and experiences. Data from students (n = 346) through a survey, field notes, observations and interviews (n = 18) were collected. The findings…

This informal learning research project examined how guided participation processes support the use of cultural tools (such as scientific equipment) during a nature walk at one nature center. This paper analyzed family interactions outdoors using microethnographic methods. An informal learning framework based on guided participation and cultural…

This study was aimed to determine pre-service teachers' views about science centers and museums, as out-of-the-school learning environments, through case study. For that purpose, the pre-service teachers were provided to participate in out-of-the-school learning environments which were designed in a structured way, and their attitudes and views…

As is well known, scientific entertainment can be a fruitful way to attract people of any age to science. Depending on the specific purpose, different mixtures of science and amusement can be considered, so emphasizing scientific education with respect to fun aspects or vice versa. Moreover, when proposing "hands-on" activities in such learning…

In 2006, the Scottish Executive's Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Learning Department (SEETLLD) asked HM Inspectorate of Education (HMIE) to carry out a review of the four Scottish science centres--Glasgow Science Centre (GSC), Our Dynamic Earth (ODE) in Edinburgh, Satrosphere Science Centre in Aberdeen, and Sensation Science Centre in Dundee.…

Most schools visit Magna Science Adventure Centre on the back of careful planning and preparation. Magna is a fairly unique environment. "Steelos", the local name for the former Templeborough steelworks in Rotherham, West Yorkshire, was a vast plant. It became home to Magna in 2001. The building is over half a kilometre long and 45…

Describes one teacher's experience working at a science center during a leave of absence from teaching. Discusses the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus, OH. COSI is a science and technology center where visitors can see and interact with hundreds of exhibits and demonstrations on topics related to science, industry, health, and…

Presented is the argument that museums currently have a greater need for formative than for summative evaluation. Areas of formative evaluation that are of primary concern are also discussed. (Author/SA)

Describes a Physics Exploration Center, a space where students solve lecture-related homework problems in a hands-on facility. (CCM)

The Environmental Studies Center Outdoor Science program should represent a continuation of the county science curriculum. However, science teachers were insufficiently involved and generally unprepared to conduct effective classroom follow-up activities with students upon returning from outdoor field excursions sponsored by the Environmental…

Describes an effort of a library and a school system in which an educational resource science and mathematics enrichment center was created to combat the underrepresentation of minorities in science and technology-related careers. Explains classes at the center, inservice, teacher education, informal use of the center, and additional programs. (RT)

Discusses a recent addition to the Museum of Science and Industry (Chicago) known as "Everyday Chemistry." This permanent exhibit on modern chemistry incorporates demonstrations of chemical reactions in ways intended to enhance public understanding. Describes the six cases in the exhibit and the automated aspects of their demonstrations.…