Development and Assessment of Modalities for Adult Science Engagement at Science World

Scientific literacy and life-long scientific education is becoming increasingly important for everyday life in our society. One of the mediums through which the public can find accessible information on science and technology advancements is their local science centre such as Science World. Science World would like to increase their adult-oriented content by 2020 and support me in assessing which modalities are most effective at educating, engaging and entertaining adult audiences. I will assess the abilities of 3 different modalities at fulfilling these goals and determine which aspects of each framework are most effective in order to help Science World develop successful modalities for adult engagement with science. I expect that coupling scientific education with tasks applicable to everyday life will increase attendance, enjoyment and engagement thus increasing appreciation and literacy of scientific knowledge through free-choice learning approaches.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sandra Scott

Student:

Lindsay Petley-Ragan

Partner:

Science World

Discipline:

Education

Sector:

Education

University:

University of British Columbia