Inquiry


Book Description







The Challenge and Promise of K-8 Science Education Reform


Book Description

Vol. 1 of Foundations, a monograph series published by the National Science Foundation to serve those working to better science, mathematics and technology education in the U.S. Examines opportunities and challenges for those at the front line of science education in elementary and middle schools. Designed as a resource for teachers and administrators who have not yet implemented a program of inquiry-based science education, and a short introduction for those beginning the complex and difficult journey of science education reform based on the experiences of educators working in the field today.







Informal Learning and Field Trips


Book Description

Turn every field trip into a high-quality learning experience! What youngster isn't excited at the prospect of taking a field trip? Enthusiastic students present teachers with the ideal scenario for creating meaningful out-of-the-classroom encounters and giving students the building blocks to help them become active participants in their own educational process. This resource helps educators take full advantage of off-site educational opportunities by developing lessons that connect informal learning with content standards. Based on constructivist philosophy and inquiry-based learning, the book provides numerous sample lesson plans and technology tips, and includes: • Learner-centered activities for language arts, math, science, social studies, and fine art • Ways to support English Language Learners and special education students • Guidelines for developing corresponding classroom activities • Strategies for building partnerships with informal learning sites • Methods for bringing museum-type activities into the classroom when a trip is not possible Field trips turn the whole world into a classroom. Informal Learning and Field Trips helps enrich students' lives as they explore the world outside the school grounds and gives teachers a prime opportunity to revitalize the learning experience.




Learning Science in Informal Environments


Book Description

Informal science is a burgeoning field that operates across a broad range of venues and envisages learning outcomes for individuals, schools, families, and society. The evidence base that describes informal science, its promise, and effects is informed by a range of disciplines and perspectives, including field-based research, visitor studies, and psychological and anthropological studies of learning. Learning Science in Informal Environments draws together disparate literatures, synthesizes the state of knowledge, and articulates a common framework for the next generation of research on learning science in informal environments across a life span. Contributors include recognized experts in a range of disciplines-research and evaluation, exhibit designers, program developers, and educators. They also have experience in a range of settings-museums, after-school programs, science and technology centers, media enterprises, aquariums, zoos, state parks, and botanical gardens. Learning Science in Informal Environments is an invaluable guide for program and exhibit designers, evaluators, staff of science-rich informal learning institutions and community-based organizations, scientists interested in educational outreach, federal science agency education staff, and K-12 science educators.