When the right answer is a question: Students as explainers at the Exploratorium

January 1st, 1995 | RESEARCH

Students who work at the Exploratorium in San Francisco, California learn about science by explaining to the visitors from all over the world how the museum's exhibits work. The students are teen-agers who also come from all over the world to be "Explainers" for the Exploratorium. They go through a training period to learn the basics of how the exhibits work and how to share their knowledge with the general public. The student "Explainers" not only learn about science, but they also learn how to be effective communicators. After completing a semester of working in the Museum, students take their experiences with them and build upon them for the rest of their lives. Many students use this valuable experience to further their science education and to pursue science related employment. The book concludes with information on how students can apply to work at the Exploratorium.

Document

when_the_right_answer_is_a_question.pdf

Team Members

Ellen Klages, Author, Exploratorium
Darlene Librero, Author, Exploratorium
James Bell, Author, Exploratorium

Citation

Identifier Type: ISBN
Identifier: 0943451-40-X

Tags

Audience: Museum | ISE Professionals | Youth | Teen (up to 17)
Discipline: Education and learning science | General STEM
Resource Type: Book | Reference Materials
Environment Type: Museum and Science Center Programs | Public Programs