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Project Descriptions

Making Models

May 1, 2000 - March 31, 2005 | Public Programs, Exhibitions

The Museum of Science in Boston will develop exhibits and programs for visitors to use models as tools for understanding the world around them. It is the 4th stage of a six-part, long-range vision and plan that focuses on comprehending science as a way of thinking and doing. "Making Models" will serve over one million visitors per year, mostly families and school groups. The models to be featured include physical, biological, conceptual, mathematical, and computer simulation models. Four (4) specific science inquiry skills will be stressed, which are associated with making and using models: recognition of similarities, assessment of limitations, communication of ideas, and the creation of one's own models for developing personal understanding and appreciation of the world in which we live. In tandem with this new exhibit, some current exhibits and programs will be modified to meet these modeling goals. Demonstrating the application of these new exhibit techniques for other museums and science centers, and evaluating how visitors learn in this setting will also be performed, with the results disseminated on a national level. The Museum will collaborate with two (2) other nationally known sites in this development and evaluation of exhibit components, creation of new teacher development programs, and the development of models-related web resources.

Funders

NSF
Funding Program: ISE/AISL
Award Number: 9909573
Funding Amount: 1727701

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Douglas Smith
    Principal Investigator
    Museum of Science
  • Larry Bell
    Co-Principal Investigator
    Museum of Science
  • Paul Fontiane
    Co-Principal Investigator
    Museum of Science
  • Discipline: General STEM | Mathematics | Nature of science
    Audience: Elementary School Children (6-10) | Middle School Children (11-13) | Youth/Teen (up to 17) | Families | General Public | Educators/Teachers | Museum/ISE Professionals
    Environment Type: Public Programs | Museum and Science Center Programs | Exhibitions | Museum and Science Center Exhibits

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