This paper discusses three case studies – an exhibition on biodiversity, a hotel water conservation program, and a partnership between a nature center and urban public schools – to establish parameters for designing learning experiences that accommodate the varied worldviews and attitudes of learners. Positive outcomes occurred in all three cases, but could best be interpreted if sub-samples of participants were distinguished based on their readiness to embrace conservation messages. The studies demonstrated the limitations of narrowly defined learning outcomes as benchmarks for success or
With funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), four Philadelphia area museums: New Jersey State Aquarium, The Academy of Natural Sciences, The Franklin Institute Science Museum, and the Philadelphia Zoo - collaborated to develop Families Exploring Science Together (FEST), a four-year program designed to provide science experiences that stimulate, encourage, and enrich families' interest, involvement, and learning in science. The museums partnered with community-based organizations in culturally diverse neighborhoods in the Philadelphia/Camden region to offer families a variety of