Rhiannon Crain
Ph.D, Center for Informal Learning and Schools
Institutionalization In Action: Science Center Interactivity And Materiality From The Family Perspective
In this study, I brought together historical work detailing the origination of organizational structure in interactive science museums with an activity-based perspective on families’ material experiences at a science center. [Read More]
Past Dissertation Spotlights
Molly Phipps
Senior Evaluation and Research Associate, Science Museum of Minnesota
Iterative Investigation into the Implementation of Handheld Computers as Learning Tools in a Science Museum
In this study I discuss the state of Free-Choice Learning research, and an investigation into the use of personal ubiquitous technology on visitors' experiences at a science center. The three manuscripts included in this document: Review published research on free-choice learning from 1997-2007 from selected journals. [Read More]
John Baek
Assistant Professor, Oregonstate.edu
Exploring the Assessment of Geological Observation with Design Research
The purpose of this study was to investigate the assessment of geological observation through the development and field testing of performance tasks. The study addressed a central challenge of geoscience education: for students to observe the world around them and make real world connections. [Read More]
Heather Zimmerman
Assistant Professor, Penn State University
Everyday science & science every day: Science–related talk & activities across settings
To understand the development of science–related thinking, acting, and learning in middle childhood, I studied youth in schools, homes, and other neighborhood settings over a three–year period. [Read More]
Jen DeWitt
Research Associate, King's College London
Supporting teachers on science-focused school trips: Towards an integrated framework of theory and practice
Although science centers and museums are important educational resources, school trips to these sites are not often conducted in a manner that exploits their full potential for learning. This thesis aims to investigate whether teacher practice during and surrounding school trips could be enhanced to better support student learning. [Read More]