Abstract:

Museums, science centers, and other informal learning institutions are playing an increasingly important role in promoting science for all learners. The use of non-traditional learning environments and informal learning resources provide unique opportunities to spark student interest in science and to deepen student engagement. Museums can reinforce scientific concepts, develop the practices employed by scientists and engineers, and foster an appreciation for and interest in the pursuit of science both in school and outside the classroom. Recent reports emphasize the importance of learning science in informal environments and provide clear evidence that these experiences can promote science learning in ways that strengthen and enrich school science. Informal learning has also been shown to provide important and unique opportunities to engage students, particularly for those who come from communities historically underrepresented in science-related fields.

In order to prepare the next generation to actively contribute to a global society that is being shaped by science and technology, the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) in Chicago, IL, USA established a vision which aims to inspire and motivate our children to achieve their full potential in the fields of science, technology, medicine, and engineering. To meet the challenge of fulfilling this vision, MSI has redefined the role informal learning institutions must play to improve the quality of science education in our communities and to build a scientifically literate citizenry. MSI has developed and launched a long-term strategy that provides a comprehensive suite of science education programs focused at their center on engaging underserved and underrepresented youth in science learning, but also their influencers – the communities, families and schools – who support them.

The proposed conference session will outline the components of a comprehensive model for using the resources of informal learning institutions to strengthen science learning both in and out of the school setting. We will explore science education program strategies that target students, teachers, community organizations, and families at a community-wide level, highlighting key research findings that support this work. We will share practical and effective educational approaches that aim to raise interest and participation in science by students across grade levels; influence youth to choose careers in science, technology, medicine, and engineering; sustain a supportive community climate for science engagement; and facilitate high-quality science teaching and learning in schools.

Keywords:

Museums, science education, informal learning, non-traditional learning environments, K-12 education, out of school time programs.