Articles tagged with Informal Education
A free self-efficacy survey has been developed for informal science educators, aiming to fill the gap in evaluation systems that leave them struggling to improve. The survey assesses pedagogical success using widely used measurements and provides a way for educators to identify areas needing support.
Researchers found that children who aren't friends connect better through play when given a task to complete, especially during goal-directed activities. The study, which involved 148 children aged six to eight, shows that connected communication is crucial for social coordination and teamwork.
A Brazilian research team used non-formal education methods in science museums to improve high school students' interest and confidence in chemistry. The interactive exhibition explained advanced oxidation processes, increasing students' sense of competence and positive perception of the discipline.
A University of Phoenix survey conducted by The Harris Poll reveals widespread gaps in awareness about potential credit for prior learning. Many working adults skip development due to cost and scheduling barriers, while others don't know their work experience can be applied towards a degree.
Nine European high school students spent months in an isolated habitat simulating life on Mars, developing essential skills like problem-solving and collaboration. The EXPLORE project aims to inspire a passion for STEAM subjects and prepares the next generation for actual space missions.
Researchers found that environmental educators improved their teaching and leadership skills after learning from students in an environmental education program. The study revealed the impact of youth-to-adult intergenerational learning on educator attitudes and behaviors.
A groundbreaking study highlights middle-tier instructional leaders as pivotal change agents in improving teacher performance and system coherence. The research emphasizes the importance of empowering these leaders through professional development and clear role definitions.
A study by UPF examines the emergence of Chinese students translating Hispanic songs, including reggaeton, into Chinese on music streaming platforms. The researchers analyzed two non-professional translators' work and found that they use intercultural mediation strategies to make Spanish culture more accessible to a Chinese audience.
Researchers found that GenAI feedback offers timely and personalized feedback, educational benefits as an essay editor and tutor, and social benefits as a supportive environment. However, challenges include limited AI skills, dependency risk, and emotional understanding limitations.
The ISS National Lab is seeking proposals for education-focused projects that prepare students for space-focused careers. Successful projects will leverage the orbiting outpost for training and education programs.
A new study shows Indian students who work in retail markets perform poorly on school-type math problems, while those still enrolled in school do better on marketplace math. This contrast highlights a need to address the skills gap between academic and applied math, with experts suggesting different approaches for each group
Researchers will examine archival research, media content, and conduct interviews with series creators and experts to understand the show's influence on science education. The project aims to explore how 'The Magic School Bus' worked creatively, educationally, and financially.
A study by Soila Lemmetty at the University of Eastern Finland highlights inadequate pedagogical implementation of online training leading to certificates of completion rather than professional development. The study also notes erosion of trust and declining social bonds due to remote work, which weakens community and innovation.
A Swansea University-led project aims to address the concerning rise of skin cancer in Wales by exploring current perceptions of tanning among children, parents/carers, and educators. The results will support the development of a new sun-safety educational toolkit for the Welsh curriculum.
Researchers identified four types of family learning environments in Scandinavian families, shaped by parental values and socioeconomic status. The study found that family activities, emotional climate, and everyday organisation play a crucial role in shaping children's learning environments. Four categories were developed: Expansive C...
A new study by the University of Exeter suggests that incorporating spaces for repairing and remaking clothes in shopping centers can promote sustainable fashion practices. Participants who took part in workshops reported engaging in more environmentally-oriented behaviors, such as buying fewer items and sourcing clothes ethically.
Researchers found that childcare workers in informal creche settings need training to better support non-English speaking migrant and refugee children. The study showed that on-site professional learning improved emotional literacies and strategies for supporting these children, resulting in happier outcomes for families.
A study by Dr Lixin Ren found that extracurricular activities have a limited impact on math skills in preschool children, with effects dependent on behavioral regulation and approaches to learning. For children with poor self-regulation skills, structured activities can improve early math skills.
A study by the University of the Basque Country found that secondary school students have limited knowledge of biosphere reserves, marshes, and bird migration. However, students from rural areas and those who participated in primary school bird-related projects showed better understanding of local biodiversity.
Researchers found that while parents and educators recognize the benefits of nature play, they struggle with certain aspects, particularly risk. A key move will be to boost educators' knowledge about nature-based learning to promote enabling factors.
A recent study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University found that ethnic minority parents in Inner Mongolia prefer evidence-based knowledge on family education tailored to their local environment and culture. They sought information on how geographical features like the geomagnetic field influence children's growth and well-being.
A study found significant gaps in extracurricular activities among kindergarten children based on race and mother's education level. White children were more likely to participate in athletics, while those from disadvantaged backgrounds may miss opportunities that could help them succeed in school.
A study by Göttingen University found that training methods combining farmer-to-farmer learning with educational videos significantly increased the use of productive practices among smallholder farmers in Ethiopia. This approach also promoted informal information transfer and improved adoption of complex technologies.
The study found that many museums struggled to adapt their in-person programs to online format, leading to decreased engagement and revenue. However, some institutions successfully transitioned to virtual programming, offering creative and engaging content for underserved audiences.
A new study by researchers at the University of Cambridge and the University of Sussex suggests that children who increased their connection to nature during the pandemic had lower levels of behavioural and emotional problems. The study found that nearly two-thirds of parents reported a change in their child's connection to nature, wit...
A Texas A&M University study found that physics outreach programs have a positive effect on both students and their audiences, boosting confidence, skills, and career readiness in STEM fields. The programs provide experiential learning opportunities beyond classrooms, promoting deeper understanding and enhanced job prospects.
Researchers at North Carolina State University developed a machine-learning model to predict how long individual visitors will engage with exhibits. The model achieved accurate predictions using only facial expressions and posture data, with better performance when visitors interacted with the exhibit for longer periods.
Research led by NC State University found that teen docents have a positive effect on visitors' experiences, learning, and information retention at informal learning sites. Children between 9 and 11 years old showed the largest impact, with higher information retention levels when interacting with a youth educator.
Researchers found that informal knowledge exchanges are more valuable than formal learning in healthcare settings, leading to a faster and more equal response to crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. This suggests that organizations should prioritize equality among staff and foster dialogue and participation.
Researchers investigated using Facebook to implement a critical care ultrasound (CCUS) curriculum. Fellows participated in a two-day hands-on bootcamp and joined a private CCUS Facebook group, which provided them with core skills and case studies over 20 weeks.
A study found that having fun at work is significantly related to informal learning, which includes unstructured forms of learning. Fun activities supported by management enhance wellbeing and create a safe environment for learning. Managers' support for fun matters more than their support for learning.
Researchers found AR technology benefits pupils from the lowest achieving school success group, helping them catch up with peers. The study also showed that girls benefited more from informal learning experiences, highlighting a key factor in their learning outcomes.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Kent State University, and Cleveland Metroparks have partnered to develop a new learning app called ParkApps. The app features interactive resources and games that promote informal science learning and engagement with the environment.
A new NSF-funded project aims to develop rural libraries and librarians into informal STEM learning centers, providing access to science education for small towns and rural areas. The initiative builds on a previous Dartmouth-led project that reached over 100 libraries and aims to involve another 110.
Researchers at Kent State's SOLE Center aim to measure the impact of informal science education on children's interest and knowledge. The team will develop an assessment tool to study the effectiveness of field trips to the Great Lakes Science Center and explore how these experiences influence STEM learning.
A recent study highlights the importance of long-term commitment to youth projects, rather than relying on short-term funding streams. The research concludes that ongoing input and community engagement are crucial for generating effective and sustainable impacts on communities.
Researchers found that simple games and informal exposure to foreign language words and pictures significantly improved language learning outcomes. The study shows that people can retain knowledge unintentionally learned through informal activities even days later.
A new study from Concordia University and Mount Allison University found that homeschooled children who followed a structured curriculum performed significantly better on standardized tests than their public school peers. On average, they scored two to four grade levels higher in certain tests, with some scoring as much as half a grade...
The NSF Climate Change Education Partnership aims to increase public understanding of global climate change by connecting climate scientists, experts in learning theory, and education professionals. The program will develop innovative approaches to teaching climate science and disseminate accurate educational resources.
The Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting has received a $199,909 NSF grant to enhance the communication of oil spill research. The project will bring together scientists and science communicators to clarify early scientific findings about the oil spill's impacts.
A survey of TV weathercasters reveals that two-thirds are interested in reporting on climate change and many already serve as informal science educators. Despite this, most feel uncertain about the scientific consensus, with some doubting global warming's existence.
The CAISE Informal Science Education Summit brings together professionals to discuss critical issues impacting the field, including infrastructure, policies, and learning outcomes. Attendees will explore emerging trends and share knowledge across disciplines to strengthen the collective community.
The new science of learning emphasizes computational, social, and brain-based approaches to understanding human learning. Key findings include the importance of machine learning, social interaction, and empathy in learning, which are now being applied to develop personalized teaching tools.
Research highlights three principles: learning is computational, social interaction underpins early learning, and brain circuits linking perception and action support learning across the life span. Social interaction with humans, particularly parents or tutors, plays a crucial role in early learning.
The American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS) honored four award winners in 2008 for their significant contributions to the biological sciences. These individuals were recognized for their groundbreaking research, exceptional service to the scientific community, and dedication to education and environmental conservation.
The NSF has launched three Science of Learning Centers to study the foundations of learning across various situations, from cellular to complex processes engaging different brain areas. The centers will support interdisciplinary research and develop new methods for improving human learning and developing intelligent machines.
The University of Washington will create a science of learning center with a focus on implicit learning, informal and formal learning. The center will conduct research on 29 separate studies to advance human learning through new technologies and collaborations.
Research highlights the importance of lifelong learning for older adults, with formal classes often being supplemented by informal activities. Informal learners reported engaging in daily routines like reading and watching documentaries as an integral part of their lives.
The Center for Informal Learning and Schools (CILS) aims to prepare leaders in informal science education, conduct research, and provide professional development opportunities. Researchers will examine innovative methods of science teaching and design creative learning environments.
The program combines classroom instruction with investigative learning experiences at St. Louis science institutions to develop engaging biology curriculum for middle and secondary students. Eight topic areas will be covered, including genetics, animal behavior, and human impact on ecosystems.
A Penn State researcher finds that curriculum tracking in US middle schools tends to work against poorer students, with factors such as attitude and course complexity contributing to this outcome. The system often discourages low-income families from questioning or contesting the placement offered by the school.
A major national study found that quality in child care makes a difference in children's intellectual and social readiness for school. The effects of higher-quality care were strongest among children at greater risk of doing poorly in school.
A new set of curriculum guides, developed with NSF support, helps teachers stimulate students' curiosity about life in the universe. The guides provide tools for elementary school teachers to explore topics like planetary systems and extraterrestrial life.