This document contains a number of models that describes how a museum can act as a communications device to the public. The argument is made that a one-dimensional model is no longer sufficient to explain the communication between museum and visitor. The focus is on a model that provides what the visitor desires and needs in exhibits, tours,…

This research examines some of the factors that influence the learning process in an informal science education setting such as the Explora Science Center. Goals of the study include the completion of a qualitative as well as quantitative study on adult learning in an informal, hands on setting, observing and determining the learner…

This catalog deals with an exhibition of historical reading materials used in the United States--old primers, spellers, and readers--which contained mostly items from privately owned collections. The catalog is divided into the following chronological sections: (1) Following in the Footsteps of Our English Forebears: The Alphabet Method Reigns…

In the course of a Web development project for the Museum fur Volkerkunde in Vienna, ViEx, a reuse framework supporting authoring and managing hypermedia exhibitions, has been developed. The framework consists of three major components: a relational content database, a corresponding browser based editing interface, and a Web page generator which…

Not long ago, children were passive recipients of what teachers and textbooks gave them. they read and heard about the earth, about the great changes produced on its surface through the activity of nature and man, about their people, their life and work and their adjustment to their environment, but no concrete experiences helped them to…

Describes the programs developed for elementary school children at twelve of the nation's leading science museums. These programs are based on physical and life sciences, make use of visitor-participation exhibits, and demonstrate scientific principles and their applications in society and industry. (JR)

The authors attempt to "suggest common interest areas which lead to better communication between DE and AV personnel," basing their presentation on Edgar Dale's cone of experiences. (Author/LS)

Describes exhibits and activities at Field Museum of Natural History (Chicago), Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (Portland), Carnegie Museum of Natural History (Pittsburgh), and Museum of Sanibel Island (Florida). Such information as educational activities, admission costs, and hours of operation is included. (JN)

The nation's only touring art museum was conceived by the Michigan Council for the Arts in 1971 as a way to bring art to the people. Exhibits for the 1983 California tour, the specially designed railroad cars, the school educational program, and Artrain's functions in communities are described. (SR)

A "children's festival" can be an exciting and meaningful alternative to the traditional school carnival, which often emphasizes competition rather than cooperation and learning. Ideas for such a festival that can generate money, provide fun for adults and children, encourage cooperation, and provide learning experiences are presented.…

Presented is a Corridor Demonstration which can be set up in readily accessible areas such as hallways or lobbies. Equipment is listed for a display of three cells (solar cells, fuel cells, and storage cells) which develop electrical energy. (CS)

Describes the use of history fairs to encourage student projects in local and state history. The discussion covers student motivation and incentives, in the implementation of fairs within school curricula. (AM)

Describes a variety of fourth-grade student projects on Pennsylvania history which could be used in a schoolwide Tercentenary Fair. Individuals or small groups of students become experts on particular subjects (historical figures, state products, or important historical events) and serve as resource people at their booths during the fair. (AM)

Discusses computer programs and courses offered to children and teachers at the new Future Center at the Capital Children's Museum, and describes the displays and activities of the communications exhibit and Kid-Net, a minicomputer based time-sharing system for which a series of computer programs for use by visitors will be developed. (RBF)