Teachers and Science Museums: Are Valuable Connections Being Made
In response to a national concern that Americans are not scientifically literate, numerous organizations have developed standards, initiatives, and programs that seek to support science educators in their quest to teach more effectively. Community resources such as science museums and technology centers have embraced the goals of science education reform and are attempting to connect their resources with the curricular requirements of schools. This study focuses on the links being made between teachers and science museums. Specifically, are teachers familiar with and participating in museum- developed educational programming? An examination of three museum teacher outreach programs and interviews with four elementary and middle school teachers regarding their professional experience with museums, suggests that valuable connections are not being made effectively.
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