Embedding NOAA in a Public Learning Laboratory: Environmental Scientists in Residence at the Exploratorium – Summative Evaluation Report

A NOAA scientist-­in­‐residence program at the Exploratorium was evaluated to determine impacts on front‐line staff (Explainers), visitors, and the scientists involved. A model for hosting scientists at a museum was developed to include a one‐week residency that helped scientists understand the museum followed by a two-­week residency during which scientists, working with the Explainers, interacted with visitors in a topic-­specific installation space. Data for the evaluation was collected using observations along with interviews and surveys with Exploratorium staff, scientists and visitors. Below are the findings from the evaluation, including how the iPad was incorporated into the installation space. Appendix includes instruments.