This is a Knowledge Base article, designed to streamline access to and share evidence about informal STEM learning. Knowledge Base articles are evidence-supported claims about what is new and emerging in the field that you can reference when you develop a proposal or “make the case” for a strategy or approach to funders and stakeholders. Veronica Garcia-Luis co-authored this article. Research … Read more
This is a Knowledge Base article, designed to streamline access to and share evidence about informal STEM learning. Knowledge Base articles are evidence-supported claims about what is new and emerging in the field that you can reference when you develop a proposal or “make the case” for a strategy or approach to funders and stakeholders. Toni Dancstep (neĂ© Dancu) co-authored this … Read more
Zoos can diversify and expand their visitors’ experiences by having a dedicated play space for young learners, allowing them to do what they do best: learn through play. Dedicated natural play spaces and programs such as nature swaps in zoos increase physical activity, quiet reflection, and types of play children engage in during play, including … Read more
Frequent and positive contact with nature before age 11, especially in active and playful experiences, is likely to foster pro-environmental affect, attitude, values, and behavior in adulthood. Direct contact with nature creates strong connections and affiliations between child and place, which is important for eco-centric value development and fosters self-efficacy in environmental issues Findings from … Read more
Spending time in nature is essential for cognitive development. Nature play stimulates creativity and problem solving skills integral to executive function development. Children who play and spend time in nature have increased concentration and cognitive skills, including mitigation of ADHD/ADD symptoms. Findings from Research & Evaluation Spontaneous, open-ended, play in natural surroundings offer unrivaled opportunities … Read more
This article was migrated from a previous version of the Knowledge Base. The date stamp does not reflect the original publication date. Overview There are a variety of informal science education programs that target adult learners. These programs exist along a continuum from casual drop-in programs (e.g., 1-2 hour workshops or lectures on scientific topics … Read more
This Knowledge Base article was written collaboratively with contributions from Kevin Crowley and CAISE Admin. This article was migrated from a previous version of the Knowledge Base. The date stamp does not reflect the original publication date. Overview Fun, excitement, pleasure, enjoyment, delight, laughter, wonder, joy are all emotional states that many informal science educators desire learners to … Read more
This Knowledge Base article was written collaboratively with contributions from Yoon Jeon Kim and Mac Cannady. This article was migrated from a previous version of the Knowledge Base. The date stamp does not reflect the original publication date. Overview There is a great need to develop assessment practices within informal science learning environments that can keep up with the … Read more
This article was migrated from a previous version of the Knowledge Base. The date stamp does not reflect the original publication date. Overview Broadcast television offers a variety of ways to present STEM-content and informal science education programming to public audiences. The educational program “Watch Mr. Wizard” (NBC 1951-1965) introduced a generation of young viewers … Read more
This article was migrated from a previous version of the Knowledge Base. The date stamp does not reflect the original publication date. Overview Numerous research studies have demonstrated that educational media can produce significant STEM learning among children. Viewing of educational television has been found to contribute to children’s knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding STEM. … Read more