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Peer-reviewed article

Multiple Outcomes of Class Visits to Natural History Museums: The Students' View

June 1, 2008 | Public Programs, Exhibitions, Informal/Formal Connections

The purpose of this study was to describe and understand the range of outcomes of class visits to natural history museums. The theoretical framework is based on the multifaceted process of learning in free choice learning environments, and emphasizes the unique and individual learning experience in museum settings. The study’s significance is in highlighting several possible cognitive as well as non-cognitive learning effects in museums class visits, by providing the student’s point of view. Data was collected by semi-structured interviews with 50 students in grades 6–8 on the day following the visit. We present evidence that students expressed several learning outcomes, connected directly and indirectly to the scientific content of the visit. Content oriented outcomes included acquiring scientific knowledge and making connections to prior knowledge; social oriented outcomes were identified in students’ statements regarding communicating knowledge and social aspects of learning; and interest oriented outcomes were evidenced by students’ expressions about emotions, interest and curiosity. The aggregate data addressed the common outcomes and the impact of class visits to natural history museums in the short term. Comparisons between two types of museums show significant differences in several aspects, regarding the exhibit and/or the activity type. Practical ideas for structuring the ultimate experience are included.

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  • Yael Bamberger
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    Technion
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    Technion
  • Citation

    DOI : 10.1007/s10956-008-9097-3
    ISSN : 1059-0145
    Publication Name: Journal of Science Education & Technology
    Volume: 17
    Number: 3
    Page Number: 274
    Resource Type: Research Products
    Discipline: Ecology, forestry, and agriculture | Education and learning science | History/policy/law | Life science
    Audience: Middle School Children (11-13) | Educators/Teachers | Museum/ISE Professionals | Evaluators
    Environment Type: Public Programs | Museum and Science Center Programs | Exhibitions | Museum and Science Center Exhibits | Informal/Formal Connections | K-12 Programs

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