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A framework for conceptualizing research in natural history museums and science centers
Author(s) -
Koran John J.,
Longino Sarah J.,
Shafer Lynn D.
Publication year - 1983
Publication title -
journal of research in science teaching
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.067
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1098-2736
pISSN - 0022-4308
DOI - 10.1002/tea.3660200407
Subject(s) - recreation , science education , science learning , natural (archaeology) , outdoor education , sociology , pedagogy , psychology , mathematics education , ecology , geography , biology , archaeology
Natural History Museums, Science Centers, Zoos, and Aquaria contribute considerably to out‐of‐school science experiences for visitors of all ages and characteristics. With birth rates and school age populations declining, it is likely that people will be looking to these settings for rest, recreation, stimulation, and learning. Science educators can play a leadership role in research, development, and in utilization of these settings to achieve learning and motivational objectives which support, supplement, and extend school science learning. But what is the current “state of the art” in this area? This article reviews relevant past studies, proposes a taxonomy of exhibits in museum settings, and focuses attention on factors which should be considered when studying learning in these settings. In addition, it presents some potentially productive methods of conceptualizing research, and suggests possible future lines of research for the science educator.