Title: Outdoor science centres

Authors: Ronen Mir

Addresses: SciTech Hands On Museum, 18 W. Benton St, Aurora, IL 60506, USA. Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, P.O. Box 500, Batavia, IL 60510 USA

Abstract: The importance of outdoor science centres that include hands-on interactive exhibits has recently grown as more and more science centres throughout the world are implementing them in their efforts to boost science and technology literacy among people. The motivation for developing outdoor science centres is presented. The significance of being outdoors and the choice of themes and exhibit ideas suitable for the outdoors is discussed. Exhibits that use natural elements in their operation and foster innovation and inventiveness among the younger generation are highlighted. Since outdoor science centres do not require buildings, their implementation may be speedy and economical. Two outdoor science centres are highlighted, the Weizmann Institute of Science|s Clore Garden of Science in Israel and the SciTech Hands-on Museum|s Outdoor Science Center in the USA.

Keywords: museums; science centres; science education; interactive exhibits; outdoor exhibits.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTM.2003.003108

International Journal of Technology Management, 2003 Vol.25 No.5, pp.390-404

Published online: 11 Jul 2003 *

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