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Nayana KariaNovember 2007
Science Theatre:The Nature of Learning
An evaluation of visitor learningfromScience Theatre shows at Techniquest, Cardiff,June to September 2007
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 This work is licensed under aCreative Commons License
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Nayana KariaNovember 2007
Abstract
This research seeks to evaluate, in light of a perceived need to advance publicunderstanding of science, the visitor experience and learning from two differentscience theatre presentations at Techniquest during the months June toSeptember 2007. The presentations were distinct in their subject, design andstyle. Data collection was undertaken by both qualitative and quantitativemethods and samples were selected on the basis of convenience. Data aboutpresentation design and visitors’ reactions was gathered using unobtrusiveobservation. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore audienceperceptions about gains derived. General indicators for the different dimensionsof learning were mapped to the Generic Learning Outcomes (GLO) framework(Museums, Libraries and Archives Council).The evaluation revealed the tremendous potential of theatre as a rich andversatile medium with the “fun factor” needed for engagement, offering cognitive,social and affective gains and fostering learning dispositions, interest andcuriosity. Science theatre also offers visitors a sense of community and theexperience of sharing learning with the family. An analysis of the design of thetwo presentations suggests that gains from science theatre may be enhanced byoffering value based, application oriented science for reflection rather thanpresenting impersonal, decontextualised, theory. A narrative, story basedpresentation of real world applications of science facilitates greater connectionbuilding and reflection, leading to more effective and insightful learning. Providinga forum for informal dialogue after the presentation may also facilitate deeper meaning making. Further research in this area may offer insights for pedagogy ingeneral, whether in the theatre, classroom, or in the virtual world.
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 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License
.
 
Nayana KariaNovember 2007
Science Theatre – The Nature of Learning
An evaluation of visitor learning from Science Theatre shows at Techniquest, Cardiff.
ChapterTable of ContentsPage
1.
Introduction and Outline
5
2.
Literature ReviewWhy Communicate Science?
10
Science Centres
14
Goals of Learning: New Paradigm – Teaching Thinking
15
Multidimensional Nature of Learning
22
Generic Learning Outcomes
24
Museum Theatre
26
Research Questions
29
3.
Research Design and Justification
31
4.
Results
44
5.
An Analysis
55
6.
Conclusion: The Opportunities
64
Appendix A: Interview Questionnaire
69
Appendix B: Quantitative Data From Structured Interviews
72
Bibliography
74
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 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons License
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