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Science Education for Diversity and Informal Learning

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Science Education for Diversity

Part of the book series: Cultural Studies of Science Education ((CSSE,volume 8))

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Abstract

Research regarding learning science in informal settings has expanded dramatically in the past 20 years. Studies have reported informal science learning in a variety of environments such as museums, science centers, zoos, and aquarium settings. The research literature is rich with detailed descriptions of learning as it occurs in informal contexts. Many conceptual frameworks are reported through which to view science learning along with conceptual frameworks to determine questions that can be explored. Research has reported results for individual, small group, large group, comprehensive, and generalized informal settings. This chapter reviews the research literature base for learning science in informal settings, provides examples of interesting research studies, and concludes with the impact of science education informal learning related to cultural and diversity issues.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Discovery Learning Research Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA

    Loran Carleton Parker

  2. Department of Curriculum and Instruction, College of Education, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA

    Gerald H. Krockover

  3. Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, College of Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA

    Gerald H. Krockover

Authors
  1. Loran Carleton Parker
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  2. Gerald H. Krockover
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Correspondence to Gerald H. Krockover .

Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. St Luke's Campus, Graduate School of Education, University of Exeter, Heavitree Road, Exeter, EX1 2LU, Devon, United Kingdom

    Nasser Mansour

  2. St. Lukes Campus, University of Exeter, Heavitree Road, Exeter, Devon, EX1 2LU, United Kingdom

    Rupert Wegerif

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Parker, L.C., Krockover, G.H. (2013). Science Education for Diversity and Informal Learning. In: Mansour, N., Wegerif, R. (eds) Science Education for Diversity. Cultural Studies of Science Education, vol 8. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-4563-6_5

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