The Informal Learning Review - No. 116. September– October. 2012

the history of the modern science center. What CONTENTS PACIFIC SCIENCE began as the highly popular US Science Pavilion at the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair gave birth to the CENTER TURNS 50: nation’s first museum founded as a science and Elephants in THE HISTORY, technology center, housing not collections and Denver artifacts, but instead expansive halls filled with EVOLUTION AND hands-on exhibits, interactive demonstrations, Page 8 and staff and volunteers trained in inquiry-based IMPACT OF THE learning methods. The Science Center’s early How Museums leaders had the foresight to recognize the in- and Museum NATION’S FIRST credible potential and unique and essential role Exhibits can In- that non-collections based centers could play in HANDS-ON SCIENCE fostering lifelong interest in science and technol- fluence Behavior CENTER ogy. Seattle journalist and World’s Fair historian Page 11 Knute “Skip” Berger recently wrote in Cross-

cut.com about Seattle’s love of science and Pa- David Haldeman and Crystal Clarity cific Science Center’s part in weaving science into Travels with an the region’s cultural fabric. Exhibition Introduction

Page 13 “The [1962 Seattle World’s] fair's legacy would On October 22, 2012, Seattle’s Pacific Science th have been huge even if the Science Center was The Curiosity Center celebrated its 50 anniversary and the informal learning field celebrated a milestone in Corner “Pacific,” continued on page 2 Page 16

Reflections: Inte- SCIENCE SHOWS: PAST, usually credited with planting the seeds of mod- ern lecture-demonstrations and science shows. gration of New PRESENT AND FUTURE Technology Davy’s “shows” became popular with the public, Page 19 Graham J. Walker including high society and royalty (James 2002), st and embodied many elements still critical in 21 What is Science demonstrations have been around for a century science shows, including interaction with the audience. Selecting a volunteer to inhale Biodiversity? very long time indeed, and their popularity and ability to engage the public mean they will be, nitrous oxide is not likely to feature in today’s Page 20 well into the future. Perhaps it began with a pre- shows—“There was Respiration, Nitrous Oxide, human ape demonstrating the technique for and unbounded Applause. Amen!” wrote Davy New Extinct ‘fishing’ ants from a nest with a stick—a demon- on his early lectures (quoted in Holmes, 2008, p. Mammal stration still popular with chimps today. Most peo- 287)—though may get a laugh if it were.

Page 21 ple, however, credit Britain’s Royal Institution (RI) for bringingpublic science demonstrations to the Davy had a major impact on science, discover- fore. These lecture-demonstration ‘shows’, de- ing many new elements and inventing devices Citizen Science signed for the lay-public as opposed to scientific like the miner’s headlamp, but he also shared – Growing peers, have evolved into today’s science shows. that science with the public and other scientific Expanding, disciplines—albeit with mixed results. According to the Chemical Heritage Foundation (2010), Contributing The RI’s efforts were built on those of The Royal Society in London in the late 17th century, where “His recommendation that nitrous oxide Page 24 John Keill gave public lectures on Newtonian (laughing gas) be employed as an anaesthetic in mechanics (Taylor 1988)–a subject still popular minor surgical operations was ignored, but in shows today. It was, however, the efforts dur- breathing it became the highlight of contempo- ing the 19th century of Humphry Davy and his rary social gatherings.” successor at the RI, Michael Faraday, which are

“Shows,” continued on page 6

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“Pacific,” continued from front cover water, arches and scintillating stone, it is The government recognized the potential as if the Gothic style had passed without of such an institution, and agreed to the only surviving pavilion — bigger than a break [through the ages]. It is as if Ven- lease the buildings to the newly-formed many a fair's contribution to civic life. The ice had just been rebuilt.” Yamasaki, committee for $1 per year, and the Science Center stands today as a secular along with the Pavilion’s iconic arches name Pacific Science Center was cho- temple to the truth and its pursuit; it and foundations, even made the cover of sen—the first institution in the world to teaches and engages our children, it Time magazine in 1963. call itself a “science center.” On October wows us with exhibits from robotic dino- 22, 1962, the day after the Fair’s closing, saurs to King Tut and even brings us Laser The inside was just as intriguing. It was the the United States Science Pavilion re- Floyd.” (Crosscut.com, Seattle’s Great Sci- first time a single exhibit of that size and opened as Pacific Science Center. ence Renaissance, September 27, 2012) scale had been devoted solely to science communication, and particularly, commu- The Beginnings nication of “the connotations, the textures, and the innate joy of science, rather than After the launch of the Sputnik satellite by its massive technology and often stagger- the Soviet Union in 1957, the United ingly complex findings.” Its theme did not States faced a choice: redouble its efforts dwell on one particular scientific discipline in science and technology or risk losing nor set of facts; instead it presented a story- the Space Race. This new sense of ur- line of humankind’s attempts to under- gency drove the United States to look for stand the universe, with the intention of bolder, grander, and larger-scale ways sparking a better understanding and ap- to inspire the public in science. They preciation of science as a whole. A visitor’s found one in a World’s Fair being experience began in what is now the PAC- planned in Seattle. CAR IMAX® Theater with a film by the legendary Charles and Ray Eames entitled Originally conceived in the mid-1950s as “The House of Science.” The remaining a “Festival of the West,” Sputnik buildings were then visited sequentially, prompted the World’s Fair to instead giving visitors a storyline of scientific pro- Historic Photo from Seattle Post-Intelligencer adopt science, aerospace and “the fu- gress and possibility throughout history, ture” as the major themes of the exposi- with exhibits titled “The History of Science,” In the early years, however, Dr. Ray’s tion. In hearings about the fair, civic lead- “The Spacearium” (now the Laser Dome), “great experiment” struggled. Financial ers stated that America's "very survival “The Methods of Science,” and “The Hori- support proved highly challenging for the during the next century depends upon zons of Science.” In total, 6,748,000 peo- fledgling institution, as much of the busi- how well we develop our scientific re- ple visited the U.S. Science Pavilion from ness and education community were sources." It was decided that one of the April 21st to October 21st, 1962. largely unaware of the need for the kind of cornerstones of the fair would be the supplementary science education offered United States Science Pavilion, a federally As the fair progressed however, there by Pacific Science Center. The institution’s -sponsored exhibit to inspire and encour- was the question of what would happen first few years saw continually mounting age young people to take up careers in to the buildings after the fair was over. debt, although state, county, and city assis- science. In appropriately futuristic fashion, The U.S. Government had a vision for tance along with grants from the National a radio impulse was transmitted from the Yamasaki’s quiet ponds, sweeping Science Foundation, the Seattle Foundation nation's capital in Washington, D.C., arches, gothic walkways and floral foun- and others helped keep the organization bounced off the moon, and then received tains: a storage facility. Seattle’s civic alive. Gradually momentum began to in Seattle as the signal to break ground leaders however, had another idea: build, and many of the financial elements on the Pavilion on February 21, 1961. familiar today took root. Admission, which “It should enrich the life of the com- was initially free, was charged (at $1 per Designed by Seattle-born architect Mi- munity. It should amuse, beguile, person), a membership program was put noru Yamasaki, the United States Science stimulate, inspire and inform. It should in place, and a store was opened. The first Pavilion was a massive success. Its archi- complement and supplement the inter- Festival of the Fountains was held in 1963, tecture alone prompted nearly universal ests and scientific resources of this and a “Science Circus” was held in De- praise at the time: the art critic for the area. […]The Pacific Science Center cember during school breaks, adding an New York Times wrote, “The hit of the should pioneer in a great experiment additional incentive for families to visit. Seattle World’s Fair is the United States designed to show that the essence, New exhibits and programs were added Science Pavilion, a dreamlike building aims and methods of science can be and expanded, lectures and events were before which people stand murmuring, widely appreciated in the general held, facilities were upgraded, and Pacific ‘beautiful.’” Journalist Alistair Cooke was population.” Science Center’s reputation—and atten- even more enthralled: “As you come dance—grew. closer and are surrounded by the con- –Dixy Lee Ray, Pacific Science Center’s crete surfaces everywhere, and the deli- first Education Coordinator and Director After laying the philosophical and pro- cate and rippling interplay of light and (1963-1972) grammatic foundations for Pacific Sci-

2 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2 ence Center, Dr. Ray’s tenure ended in That same year, another significant mile- helped solidify Pacific Science Center’s 1972 when she was appointed by Presi- stone occurred. At this time, Pacific Sci- reputation as an important Seattle cul- dent Nixon to head the U.S. Atomic En- ence Center was the only non-federal tural institution. At its end, it had become ergy Commission (she would later be- agency to be occupying federal land—a the second largest attended exhibit in come the first female governor of Wash- situation that made alterations and reno- Seattle history. ington State). Two years later, Pacific Sci- vations challenging, often made potential ence Center would pioneer in another funders wary, and provoked general un- Moynihan also oversaw sweeping experiment: During the energy crisis in easiness since the federal government changes and additions to Pacific Science the 1970s, many school groups were could revoke the lease at any time and Center in the 1990s through a $40 mil- unable to afford the cost of visiting Pacific for any reason. That changed in 1974 lion capital campaign, which saw the Science Center, so in 1974 the Science when the Pacific Science Center Founda- construction of architectural elements Center was brought to them. A program tion received the title to the buildings and and additions that are familiar today: the was created to bring hands-on exhibits to grounds on the condition that it must Ackerley Family Exhibit Gallery, the 3D- school classrooms, and would become remain a science museum for the next 30 capable Boeing IMAX Theater, the Tropi- the first science outreach program of its years. With greater control over its future cal Butterfly House, the Kiewit Pavilion, kind in the country. What would later attained, Pacific Science Center began the Seattle Rotary Discovery Labs and the grow into a fleet of vans reaching more infrastructure improvements. Build- James Albert Claypool Memorial Ga- 150,000 students each year began with ing 4 was renovated from an astronomy- rage. Other programs also began to a handful of Science Center staff trans- and space-travel-themed area to be- expand, including summer and school porting portable exhibits in their cars to come a traveling exhibit hall, the plane- break camps and camp-ins. local schools. tarium was completed, laser capabilities were installed in the Spacearium, and in In 1993, Pacific Science Center’s pro- 1979 the Eames Theater was remodeled gramming expanded eastward. The Sci- to become the Eames IMAX Theater. ence Center and the City of Bellevue rec- ognized the need to not only tell children In 1980, the tenure of George Moynihan about the fragility of the natural world, as Executive Director began, which was but allow them to see its fragility for to last more than two decades. Pacific themselves. On a hill overlooking 320 Science Center saw its reputation grow acres of pristine marshes, rivers, woods internationally in 1984 with the exhibit and meadows, the Mercer Slough Envi- China: 7,000 Years of Discovery, which ronmental Education Center (MSEEC) featured Chinese scientific and techno- was created with the purpose of allowing logical innovations. The exhibit drew the urban children to explore the natural biggest sixth-month attendance in Sci- Science on Wheels from Pacific Science ence Center history until that time, and “Pacific,” continued on following page Center

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“Pacific,” continued from previous pate Scientist Spotlights, a permanent exhibit only building aside from the Space Nee- space for local research called the Portal to dle to be nominated under all six. environment through the Slough’s net- Current Research, and Science Cafes in work of trails and streams, and then re- Seattle, Kirkland and Tacoma. The pro- With over a million visitors and program turn to the MSEEC to understand the sci- gram became not only a regional but na- participants each year in Seattle and ence behind what they’d seen. The tional success, and was awarded the Roy around the state, Dr. Ray’s “great experi- MSEEC is a collaboration between the L. Shafer Leading Edge Award in 2011 by ment” is a great success. In the next few City of Bellevue, which owns and main- the Association of Science-Technology years following this great experiment, a tains the land and buildings, and Pacific museums—the highest award bestowed few other important pioneers opened Science Center, which creates and runs by the international science museum field. hands-on interactive institutions—notably the programming. The MSEEC hosts field COSI Columbus and the Ontario Science trips, sleepovers, camps, expeditions, Center in Toronto. The opening of the parties, public outreach programs and legendary Exploratorium in San Fran- teen internships all with a common pur- cisco by Frank Oppenheimer in 1969 pose: to encourage wonder and curiosity cemented the foundation for a whole about the environment. Originally based new field. As the power of this form of out of a single historic house, in 2008 the engagement in science learning was rec- facility was expanded into a state-of-the- ognized, long established museums art, LEED Gold-certified facility including around the world began adopting inter- classrooms, a wet lab, a specimen lab active methods of engaging audi- and even a tree house. Polar Science Weekend from Pacific Sci- ences. Other communities began build- ence Center ing science centers, a phenomenon that is vigorous on a global scale from Africa The 2000s also saw Pacific Science to South America to China and beyond. Center host a succession of prominent exhibits, including Titanic: The Artifact References: Exhibition in 2001, Discovering the Dead Sea Scrolls in 2007 (which would Davis, John M. 1992. “The Pacific Sci- become the second highest attended ence Center Foundation from Dream to exhibit in Science Center history) and 30th Anniversary.” Mercer Slough Overlook from Pacific Sci- Lucy’s Legacy: The Hidden Treasures of ence Center." Ethiopia in 2008. The decade also saw Findlay, John M. “The Impact of the Cold the adoption of a new Strategic Plan, War on Washington, The 1962 Seattle Soon after the completion of Pacific Sci- and Pacific Science Center’s current World's Fair.” Undergraduate online les- ence Center’s massive push to expand its mission statement: to inspire a life-long son, Center for the Study of the Pacific infrastructure and offerings, George interest in science, mathematics and Northwest. Available at http://www. Moynihan retired. Bryce Seidl became technology by engaging diverse commu- washington.edu/uwired/outreach/cspn/ President & CEO in 2003, and with his nities through interactive and innovative Website/Classroom%20Materials/Pacific% appointment came the revival of an un- exhibits and programs. 20Northwest%20History/Lessons/Lesson% deremphasized aspect of Dr. Ray’s origi- 2025/25.html [Retrieved 11/24/2011] nal vision for Pacific Science Center: col- In preparation for its 50th anniversary in laboration with universities and research 2012, Pacific Science Center applied for Nicholson Kovalchick Architects. institutions. Under Seidl, greater partner- Historic Landmark Designation from the 2010.“Pacific Science Center Seattle His- ship efforts began when in 2005, Vice City of Seattle. In recognition of the im- toric Landmark Nomination.” President of Education Dennis Schatz be- portance of our institution’s architecture gan meeting with the Polar Science Center and cultural impact, the Landmarks Advi- Stucky, Pam. 2004.“Highlights in Pacific at the University of Washington to bring sory Board unanimously designated our Science Center History.” Pacific Science their scientists to meet with our visitors to campus as a Seattle historic landmark Center internal document. demonstrate their research. This led, along under all six designation criteria—the with a grant from the National Science U.S. Department of Commerce, 1962. Foundation, to the launch of Portal to the United States Science Exhibit: World's Fair Public in 2007, Pacific Science Center’s in Seattle, 1962 (Souvenir Guide Book). initiative to bring current science and sci- Seattle, WA:Craftsman Press, 48pp. entists to our visitors. Portal to the Public began as a handful of large-scale yearly U.S. Department of Commerce(Athelstan events in which scientists from universities Spilhaus, Commissioner) 1962. United and laboratories engaged with visitors States Science Exhibit, Seattle World's using hands-on exhibits based on their Fair: Final Report. Washington, DC: Gov- research. The program has since grown PSC campus exterior from Pacific Science ernment Printing Office, 86pp. immensely, and now includes monthly Center

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David Haldeman has ten years of experi- 1854; indeed, it was an area he felt Contemporary science shows owe much ence in the informal science education strongly about. to Davy, Faraday, Bragg and many others field, and is currently a grants and com- and their combined wisdom is well worth munications writer at a Philadelphia non- “[Faraday] never merely told his hearers digging up. Faraday and Bragg’s Advice profit. He can be reached at david. about an experiment,” wrote Thompson to Lecturers1974; an anthology of in- [email protected]. Crystal Clarity is (2005) in a recent biograhpy, “but sights) should be required reading for any Marketing and Communications Director showed it to them, however simple and contemporary science showoff. In a way, at the Pacific Science Center; she may be well known it might be.” To a young lec- Faraday’s shows live on through his es- reached at [email protected] turer he once remarked: ‘If I said to my tablishment of the RI’s Friday Evening Dis- audience, “This stone will fall to the courses and Christmas Lectures for chil- ground if I open my hand,” I should dren and families, which continue to this “Shows,” continued from front cover open my hand and let it fall. Take noth- day and are replicated across the world. Before retiring, Davy appointed his ing for granted as known; inform the eye “greatest discovery” Michael Faraday to at the same time as you address the Modern show performers share Fara- the RI. He was the next major pioneer of ear.” (p. 232) day’s goal “to make science a polite en- the science show and the most instru- tertainment requiring the sort of suspen- mental figure in the early development of Live demonstrations—seeing, hearing, sion of disbelief that is associated with the the genre. Significantly, he was the first to smelling, feeling or otherwise experienc- theatre”(James, 2002, p. 227). More- seriously reflect upon the nature of dem- ing scientific phenomena—is what defines over, for the most part, they share the onstration-lectures themselves. Faraday, a science show and its roots as a “lecture- goal of the RI which “has been and re- whose scientific legacy is immense and demonstration” (a term still used to de- mains to inspire audiences, not necessar- included discoveries such as magnetic scribe shows in academic circles). Demos, ily to educate them” (ibid., p. 227). fields and electrolysis, is a fine example as aficionados fondly call them, differenti- st of someone whose interest in science was ate shows from related genres such as The average 21 century science show is sparked by (in today’s terms) science museum theatre, which tends to make not so different from those presented by shows. Faraday is evidence that these greater use of characters, narrative and Faraday; it is interactive, demonstration- short encounters can spark and further dramatic techniques (Bridal 2004). There based, favors inspiring over educating, encourage interestand motivate future is something inimitably inspirational about requires consideration of and relevance careers. His beginnings are described by a live demo, a point made by Lawrence to the audience, hinges on presentation James (2002) in a historical account of Bragg(Faraday & Bragg, 1974), another as well as content, and typically deals the RI’s lectures. of the RI’s science show pioneers. with physics and chemistry. Presenters may be scientists or actors (a debate not “Towards the end of his apprenticeship a “It is surprising how often people in all entered into here), but all use dramatic customer at the bookshop [where Fara- walks of life own that their interest in sci- tools and public speaking techniques. day worked] saw Faraday’s lecture notes ence was first aroused by attending one Beyond simply communicating science, and gave him tickets to attend the last of these courses [science shows] when the aim of most science shows is to foster four lectures to be delivered by Davy in they were young, and in recalling their positive attitudes about science, spark the Royal Institution’s theatre. Faraday impressions they almost invariably say interest, inspire curiosity, and generally took detailed notes of the lectures and not ‘we were told’ but ‘we were shown’ promote further study and careers in sci- sent them to Davy asking for a job in this or that.”(Illustrations and experiments ence. Hence, most science shows per- science. After a complex set of events section, para. 5) formed today are about inspiration in a Faraday was appointed to the Royal Insti- broad and subtle sense. tution in March 1813. Thus Faraday Recently, the RI have digitized some clas- owed the beginning of his career in sci- sic science shows performed in its legen- A rarer form of science show aims for ence to the lecture theatre, and it seems dary theatre, including Bragg’s The Na- targeted inspiration: to motivate specific unlikely that he forgot this debt.” (p. 226) ture of Things from the late fifties and the behavior, often relating to a societal is- wonderfully demo-rich Famous Experi- sue. It employs all the tools noted above Perhaps this debt is why Faraday was ments, by ex-director George Porter (see to deliver a focused science-based mes- such an exemplary performer and in- http://www.richannel.org). Porter’s lec- sage to influence the audience’s atti- vested himself greatly in creating better ture traces the history of the RI through a tudes, motivation, and behavior in par- lecture-demonstrations. Faraday was the series of amazing demos, including a ticular ways. Although examples are earliest science show theorist and spent favorite of Faraday where he electrolyzes scarce, these shows usually focus on mo- time analyzing what made a good lec- water into hydrogen and oxygen, cap- tivating action relating to the environ- ture, including setting, audience, delivery, tures it in bubbles, and ignites it in his ment, such as recycling (Our Planet En- the presenter, lecture content, and the palm with a loud bang. It is interesting to terprises 2008), or on health, such as importance of demonstrations (ibid.). He note that today’s science shows, typically, reducing smoking (Koster and Baumann is even cited as resolving to never again use a far less exciting version of this 2005) or tackling HIV AIDS (Walker, present a lecture sans demonstrations demo, with flammable gas from a cylin- after delivering a standard lecture in der and no added oxygen. Faraday was, “Shows,” continued on following page and still is, ahead of his time.

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“Shows,” continued from previous pate HIV AIDS and diabetes, along with envi- posed, answered, and linked together to ronmental issues like climate change, form the plot.” (p. 1024) Stocklmayer, and Grant 2011). Most energy use, and recycling are all ripe for shows in this area tend to use more the- science show practitioners to take to the Science Made Simple’s Visualise, which I atrical devices like characters, cos- stage and bring to life through demon- had the pleasure of performing along- tumes,special effects, and far fewer dem- strations, yet they rarely are. side of at the recent Abu Dhabi Science onstrations. How the power of demon- Festival, is another inspirational example. strations can be better harnessed in these While these types of shows are more chal- The show uses physical theater, no dia- motivational-type shows is an exciting lenging to create and make engaging for logue, engaging and often beautiful question as shows evolve into the future. audiences, managers, and practitioners– demos, multimedia, theatrical effects, particularly at the science center level— and two accessible characters to create a I have been fortunate to be able to look must question what their obligations to sense of wonder and curiosity around the at the effects of some of these motiva- their publics are. If science can provide science presented. tional shows in detail during my PhD guidance or different perspectives as to research, with exciting results. The bottom how to deal with these problems, surely we “I was very influenced by my own inter- line is that science shows are potent moti- should be communicating this. It is asenti- est”, explains performer/creator Debbie vational tools. This extends not only to ment shared by some seminal museum Syrop, “ in how artists have worked with inspiring science careers and further researchers, such as in Weil's (2002) book science centers.” They create some of the study (a common application), but also to Making Museums Matter, as noted by most absorbing and playful interactive tackling serious community problems Koster and Falk (2007, p. 1): exhibits. I noticed that “art” can be ex- such as climate change and HIV AIDS. tremely successful at raising questions Working with the Unizul Science Centre “Museums [or science centers] should exist and encouraging reflective thinking. in South Africa, we found that a science not just for the scholar or elite, but for the Something that our frothy, instant, whizz- show and short science center program greater good. The premise that museums bang shows don't necessary achieve. could have significant positive effects on should matter in this way is an intensely a range of behaviors that put young peo- responsible proposition. To pose the op- “I've spent a lot of time thinking about ple at risk of HIV infection(Walker, posite question—why would a museum how science shows could learn from more Stocklmayer, and Grant 2011). wish not to benefit society and/or the envi- established theatrical art forms like magic, ronment in the greatest possible way?—is circus, cabaret, drama, dance etc. I've One story of particular note comes from to emphasize the choice now being pre- come to the conclusion that it's about be- a teenage boy who participated in follow sented to the museum field. Surely, today, ing audience-centric. In science shows we -up interviews a month after seeing the the most compelling rationale is that, lo- tend to focus on the content and the pre- Alarming AIDS Adventure science show. cally and globally, the myriad of opportu- senter (only two corners of the golden When he came to the show, he had three nities and challenges faced by society and triangle that magicians tend to talk about). girlfriends—a common thing in Zulu cul- the environment would greatly benefit Our thinking about audiences is some- ture, but also a risk factor for HIV infec- from the kind of informed perspective mu- what basic, usually confined to consider- tion. A month later he told us he had seums could provide.” ing appropriate language and concepts. decided to only have a single partner as Rarely do we extend this thinking about a result of the science show experience. Addressing these challenges, I feel, is the motivation, connection, emotion, person- Teenage girls told stories of similar im- most critical area to consider as demon- alization, and journey. Rarely do we con- pact; how they had refused to have un- stration-based science shows evolve, but sider the show through the mindset of the safe sex after hearing these messages in there are many other fascinating ave- audience. We should. The best shows the show. Hopefully these effects are nues. Further fusion with theatrical forms touch the audience.” widespread and sustained—only deter- is chief among these. Science show per- mined future research will tell. It is a pow- formers have long used dramatic tools, Visualise is one of the few, possibly only, erful reminder that science shows can be but only recently have people begun cre- demo-based theater shows that left me so much more than laughs, bangs, and ating demonstration-based shows that quietly reflective, thoughtful, and inspired pops: they can be tools to make people’s make full use of theatrical techniques about how science permeates our every- lives better, and even save lives. and devices. For example, Fusion Science day lives and is aesthetically stunning. Theatre’s use of a “dramatic question” to This relevance and beauty of science was So what does the future of the science structure children’s chemistry shows brought to life most profoundly through show look like? Certainly, there is great (Kerby et al. 2010). the demos, made more accessible by potential for shows to break the standard performers, and enhanced by the multi- moldand be more widely used as moti- “This device, known by playwrights as the media and theatre effects. vational tools to address socio-scientific ‘dramatic question’, sparks curiosity, elic- issues. The rarity of shows in this area is its attention, and motivates the audience Which brings me to another exciting area concerning, given science communica- to wrestle with the problems presented as for the future of science shows: technology. tion more broadly regularly operates in the play unfolds. A well-crafted dramatic Presentation tools like Prezi (free online, the overlap of community problems and question provides context and urgency to see www.prezi.com) are allowing present- science. Widespread health problems like the many smaller questions that are ers to escape the stale, linear offerings of

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PowerPoint and also force presenters to and James Friday. London: Mansell for The pay attention to story, conceptual grouping Royal Institution. 32 pages and visual appeal.Video-conferencing, Holmes, Richard. 2008. The Age of Won- long used in distance education, is being der: How the Romantic Generation Discov- more widely used. For example Questa- ered the Beauty andTerror of Science. Lon- con–Australia’s National Science and don: HarperPress. 576 pages Technology Centre has recently installed a full studio that lets them reach audiences James, F A J L. 2002. “‘Never talk about across the expanse of Australia and inter- science, show it to them’: the lecture theatre nationally, while also incorporating cutting of the Royal Institution.” Interdisciplinary -edge science and scientists (another area Science Reviews 27 (3): 225-229. for the future of the demo-based show) Kerby, Holly Walter, Joanne Cantor, Marcia from Antarctica to Earth orbit. Weiland, Christopher Babiarz, and Anne W Kerby. 2010. “Fusion Science Theater Pre- Apps are infiltrating shows and give pre- sents The Amazing Chemical Circus: A New senters easy access to “toys” that in the Model of Outreach That Uses Theater To past were too expensive, big, or cumber- Engage Children in Learning.” Journal of some to incorporate. Sound wave analyz- Chemical Education 87 (10): 1024-1030. ers and technology to digitally “project” the inner workings of a human body onto Koster, E H, and Stephen H Baumann. a volunteer are just the start. The key chal- 2005. Liberty Science Centre in the United lenge for presenters with these new tools is States: A Mission Focussed on External Rele- to use them to enhance the communica- vance. In Looking Reality in the Eye: Muse- tion of science and achieve the show’s ums and Social Responsibility, ed. Robert P aims, rather than just be groovy (and pos- Janes and Gerald T Conalty, 85-112. Cal- sibly distracting) gadgets. gary: University of Calgary Press. 208 pages. In conclusion, as science shows evolve it is Koster, E H, and John H Falk. 2007. apt to reflect on the essence of a show: “Maximizing the external value of muse- science, being communicated by people, ums.” Curator: The Museum Journal 50 (2) for the benefit of other people. Be it the (April): 191–196. audience or the presenter, the human Our Planet Enterprises. 2008. Our Planet factor—especially the live interaction be- Enterprises. http://www.ourplanet.com.au/ tween them—will always be a critical as- home. pect and something that keeps the genre fresh and evolving. The human factor also Taylor, Charles. 1988. The Art and Science underscores the importance of applying of Lecture Demonstration. Bristol: Adam shows to humanity’s current challenges Hilger IOP Publishing. 196 pages. where science plays a role. Finally, this Thompson, Silvanus. 2005. Michael Fara- article has only touched on some of the day His Life And Work. London: Kessinger innovative future directions for shows—if Publishing (originally published 1901). 308 you are working on others I would love to pages. hear from you. Walker, Graham James, S. M. Stocklmayer, References and Will J Grant. 2011. “Science theatre: Captions, top to bottom: Changing South African students’ intended Bridal, Tessa. 2004. Exploring Museum behaviour toward HIV AIDS.” International Looking at the emissions of natural gas in a Theatre. Walnut Creek: AltaMira Press. 197 Journal of Science Education: iFirst article, show about climate change and the future of pages. Accessed 30 June 2012. http:// energy. www.tandfonline.com/doi/ Chemical Heritage Foundation. 2010. abs/10.1080/09500693. 2011.633939. Raising awareness of the contribution made Humphry Davy. http://www. chemheri- to climate change by methane emissions. tage.org/discover/online-resources/ Weil, S E. 2002. Making Museums Matter. chemistry-in-history/themes/ Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution Audience participation in demos and human electrochemistry/davy.aspx. Press. 273 pages. interactions are a powerful aspect of science shows. Faraday, Michael, and Lawrence Bragg. Graham J. Walker is with the Australian 1974. Advice to Lecturers: An anthology National Centre for the Public Awareness Typical science shows present physics and taken from the writings of Micheal Faraday of Science of the Australian National Uni- chemistry in a light-hearted way-here a clas- & Lawrence Bragg. Ed. Sir Geogre Porter versity, Canberra, Australia; he may be sic liquid nitrogen demonstration. reached at [email protected].

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Exhibition Review graphic and altitude location, the exhibi- in an Asian country. It is effectively an tion provides the elephants with a varied island with the primary attraction being ELEPHANTS IN DENVER environment. The Clayton F. Freiheit Ele- several gibbons brachiating through the phant House, which contains the night- leafless trees. Robert Mac West time and inclement weather stalls and the communal Koebel Family Elephant Par- The theming throughout the exhibit in- On June 1, 2012 the Denver, Colorado, lor, has natural sand/soil mix substrate cludes architecture, language and place- Zoo opened its Toyota Elephant Passage, that can readily be changed for both names, This all creates a very nice visitor a 10-acre, $50 million exhibition with variation and cleanliness. Thus, the ele- environment without overwhelming Asian elephants as its focal point. I visited phants aren’t standing on concrete for amounts of graphic interpretation. the exhibit in mid-October, with a couple hours at night and when it is cold. This objectives in mind. First, since elephants facility is outfitted in a way to assist with Despite my focus on the elephants, the in zoos are a primary target of the ani- reproduction programs—it can house up Toyota Elephant Passage does include mal-rights/welfare crowd (http:// to 8 bulls in individual quarters, with quite a variety of other species. In addi- www.peta.org/issues/animals-in- cows housed in a group. tion to the gibbons on the Chang Pang entertainment/get-elephants-out-of- Wildlife Preserve island, there are rhinoc- zoos.aspx ), I was curious to know how Visitors approaching the exhibit from the eroses, tapirs, fishing cats, otters, leop- this new exhibition was presenting its east arrive at the McGrath Family Amphi- ards, flying foxes, and snakes. They are a collection. Second, with the focus of the theater (adjacent to the primary exhibit less physically prominent part of the ex- exhibit on Asian elephants (http:// area). The introductory 15-minute show hibit, but small areas focus on them, www.denverzoo.org/ is presented twice daily. It features the making the subtle point that the Asian toyota_elephant_passage/), I was inter- female elephant, Dolly, who is about 48 ecosystem is a complex one. ested in how the elephants were inte- years old and suffers from partial trunk grated with other Asian species and also paralysis. The show is actually part of her A bit of a conflict with the Asian theme how Asian cultures and environments training program and includes discussion occurs along the northern side of the were integrated into the interpretive pro- of her individual needs and how zoo staff Elephant Passage. There, the visitor looks gram of the exhibition. And third, of provides stimulation and various behav- away from the elephants (there actually course I hoped to encounter some unex- ioral enrichments that are specific to her. aren’t elephants along this route) and pected elements of the presentation. sees part of the adjacent Predator Ridge The main part of the exhibit is very nicely exhibit. It is populated by hoofed mam- The exhibit is large, significantly larger Asian-themed. In fact, as one enters the mals from various non-Asia habitats, thus than most elephant exhibits in U.S. urban main exhibit, which is organized in three diverting attention away from Asia. It, zoos, and may, in fact, be the largest in sections, a statue of Ganesha, the Hindu unfortunately, is not clear from signage the country. The 10 acres stretch out over elephant deity, provides a welcome. The or theming that this is not part of the Toy- a long space with trails between display/ first encounter area is the Village Out- ota Elephant Passage, thus somewhat program nodes and the indoor stable/ post. It deals with the interface between confusing the primary message. breeding/communal building. This is elephants and residential areas in a rural different from many current elephant village—the resultant destruction of A very important part of Toyota Elephant displays which feature large open areas homes and crops and potential killing of Passage is its very strong and pervasive (e.g., San Diego, featured in ILR 112). the elephants. message related to environmental sus- tainability. The entire area, open spaces The exhibit currently houses three ani- Next is a more urban area, the Scholzel and all buildings, have been awarded mals, a cow and two bulls. The zoo un- Family Village. It includes a large open LEED Platinum status. Graphics through- fortunately lost its elderly female, Mimi, space with dozens of flapping Tibetan/ out the exhibit constantly remind guests earlier this autumn. There clearly is room Nepalese prayer flags waving in the wind of the several major initiatives being for this “herd” to grow. The zoo antici- and an exhibit with oversized, touchable taken by the Denver Zoo—and not just in pates adding three males in the next year prayer wheels. Opening off this plaza is this exhibit. There are many references to and, long term, playing a role in the na- the entry into the Clayton F. Freiheit Ele- the effective recycling of some 90% of the tional elephant breeding strategy. phant house, named after a long-serving animal waste. This biomass conversion zoo director. It is, logically enough, de- process not only significantly reduces the There are lots of opportunities for the lightfully elephant-themed.On the other volume of material passed into landfills elephants to walk actively—a long- side is the Soi Street Market with indoor but also generates significant amounts of standing criticism of zoos—and the keep- exhibits and retail featuring zoo-themed power to operate the zoo. Some 1.1 mil- ers make sure that they do move around items of Asian origin. There also are lion gallons of water are filtered after use regularly. There also are large water ar- unlabeled outdoor displays of everyday and then passed on to the animal quar- eas where the elephants can swim and items including bicycles, birdhouses, bas- ters as well as the zoo’s irrigation system. float. Mud wallows, scratching trees, and kets, lamps, and fabrics. And the list of sustainable practices goes shade structures all contribute to numer- on. The Denver Zoo prides itself on its ous behavioral enrichment opportunities. The third area is the Chang Pa Wildlife sustainability practices, and highlights All in all, considering its High Plains geo- Preserve, which mimics a wildlife reserve them throughout this exhibit.

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Another important aspect of the interpre- name in the title of the exhibit, Toyota -friendly, the animals are being treated tive program is the regular, but not ob- deals are effusively thanked and Toyota much better, and the focus on world- trusive, appearance of panels that dis- vehicles—both modern and wonderfully wide environments and sustainability is cuss interesting facts about specific ani- old—are encountered as one enters from becoming much more pervasive. mals’ anatomy, function, behavior, and the east end. There also is conspicuous environment. This is an increasingly im- donor recognition via comprehensive Thanks to Sean Anderson-Vie, Public portant part of any interpretive pro- wall panelslistings as well as donor pan- Relations Specialist; Brad Parks, Director gram—answering the actual questions els at the various exhibits and activity of Public Programs; Marley Stele-Inama, that come into visitors’ minds. How does centers. Education Research and Evaluation Man- it do that? What does it eat? How does ager; and Craig Piper, President/CEO that particular anatomical structure I found the Toyota Elephant Passage to for their assistance and good conversa- work? Where does it live? And so on. be an excellent addition to the Denver tion during and following my visit. Panels and simple interactives that ad- Zoo and one which both lived up to my dress these real questions create a much expectations and showed me some Robert Mac West is the editor and pub- more satisfactory visitor experience. things that I did not expect to encounter. lisher of The Informal Learning Review. And I find it reassuring, as I visit zoos in He may be reached at Finally, it is very clear who sponsors this many locations, that the interpretive pro- [email protected]. very expensive exhibit. In addition to their grams are rapidly becoming more visitor

ELEPHANTS IN DENVER

Dolly being sprayed with water at the introductory theater Elephant ears interactive presentation

Gibbon on Chang Pa Wildlife Preserve Information panel on the functions of the Elephant trunk

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ELEPHANTS IN DENVER

Ganesha Themed signage

Prayer flags above plaza Entrance to Clayton F. Freiheit Elephant House

Interactive giant prayer wheels Entrance

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ELEPHANTS IN DENVER

Cultural items display Donor acknowledgement

HOW MUSEUMS AND Watch program bills itself as something effect: Consumers have changed their that “helps consumers and businesses buying behavior, causing restaurants and MUSEUM EXHIBITS CAN make choices for healthy oceans.” It cre- stores in turn to change their buying be- INFLUENCE BEHAVIOR ates awareness about sustainable fish havior. In some ways the result has noth- choices for the dinner table. A visit to the ing to do, specifically, with aquariums Jonathan Katz aquarium—or its website—not only rein- anymore—it's a study in changing behav- forces an appreciation of the world's ma- ior—motivation, education, information Some museums today are finding it con- rine life, it shows people what they can and finally implementation. It's a circle sistent with their educational missions do to help preserve it through everyday completed—and evidence of how fo- and role in the community to convey their actions. The data are presented along cused educational objectives can have messages in a way that makes people with actionable suggestions for consum- big effects. reflect upon, and even change, their be- ers and for businesses—even including havior. In treating some topics, such as recipes. “The choices we make, one meal Branding Benefits environmental and social causes, there's at a time, add up,” is how the museum a desire to go beyond imparting infor- summarizes it. The Seafood Watch pocket guide has a mation, to stimulating action or even life of its own, but its power begins with activism. Museums are doing this This influential program does extend to the authoritative, authentic voice of the through exhibits designed to help visitors actual exhibits such as the Real Cost institution. Another circle completed—the make a visceral, emotional connection to Cafe, an interactive that in a faux cafe museum speaks from its position of au- the subject and give them the tools to setting taught visitors about sustainable thenticity, using its power for good, so to participate. They are aided by their posi- fish orders, but its success has taken the speak, and when that voice has a power- tion of trust in the community, which institution's brand far beyond the physical ful reach, that comes back to further rein- identifies them with reliable information walls of the aquarium, aided by elec- force the standing of the museum— and authenticity. They may make use of tronic media and a simple takeaway. The building its brand. experiential and high-tech environments Seafood Watch pocket guide/ with social and gaming components to smartphone app of checklists is tailored Seafood Watch demonstrates how a mu- actively bring visitors into the story and to a variety of regions, to keep in one's seum can speak from its place in the speak the language of younger genera- wallet and consult when at the restaurant community to influence behavior and by tions and diverse audiences. The mes- or the fish market. The museum reports doing so with integrity, positively reinforce sage goes home with the visitor, and they distributing more than 40 million pocket its position, its image, and its relevance. in turn can become agents of change guides since 1999, plus nearly 1 million People look up to museums as authentic through their subsequent actions. downloads of the smartphone app, and and accurate arbiters of knowledge, and that Seafood Watch has some 200 part- are disposed to accept the message de- Transcendent Takeaways ners across North America, including the livered as true and accurate. Properly two largest food service companies in the The Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood U.S. This simple item has had a domino “Behavior,” continued on following page

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“Behavior,” continued from previous pate characters (the “Eco Crew”) on video Eco Challenge effectively harnesses these screens. The Eco Garage environment positives, thereby reinforcing the behav- used, it's a powerful thing that shows the simulates a typical suburban garage and ior it teaches. That positive association museum is walking the walk—actively its contents; visitors learn to identify and helps the lesson of the experience to stick, engaged with the community's issues of properly dispose of household hazardous and to influence future choices. Kids who today and not just things of the past. In waste. Race to Recycle uses a competitive have been to Eco Challenge are speak- today's fast moving media-rich land- format to heighten the experience of ing up at the family dinner table and in scape, that is more important than ever properly sorting trash to keep recyclables the grocery store – arenas in which chil- in terms of connecting with the young. out of the landfill. All the experiences dren often have a lot of influence— include opportunities to interact, com- saying "I'm not going to eat this any- Children as Agents of Change pete, and have achievements recognized. more," or "I don't want us to buy pack- ages that can't be recycled anymore." They're learning about their environment and how to participate in it.

In other words, bringing gaming into a situation such as Eco Challenge can pro- vide the visitor with tools for coping with reality—not escaping from it. Gaming elements are used here not just because they are cutting edge electronic interac- Discovery Science Center exterior Race to Recycle exhibit tives but to speak a universal language on a fundamental level. At Discovery Science Center (DSC) in In researching the approach for Eco Chal- Santa Ana, Calif. the “Eco Challenge” lenge, DSC looked at how people learn Showing the success of its Eco Challenge exhibit, a permanent installation that and acquire motivation in interactive education outreach program targeting opened September 2011, came about gaming environments. Again, corporate sixth-graders, DSC released the following through the museum working with the buzz provides a clue to something muse- statistics: “8,491 sixth grade students local waste treatment authority. Both ums can adapt: Some very big money is taught; 6,088 additional students commit- were completely clear in the conceptual going toward “gamification” research. A ted through 8 additional partnerships; 69 stages about wanting to change consum- USA Today report from August 2012 ex- teachers educated through professional ers' recycling behavior, and targeting the plains, “Business spending on what has development workshops; $150,000 addi- message especially to children, the stated become known as 'gamification' will in- tional investment received from Waste goal being to create a generation of crease from an estimated $242 million Management toward the exhibit.” Interac- “green superheroes.” Observing how this year to $2.8 billion in 2016, predicts tive keypads used at class assemblies to corporations market consumer products, M2 Research, an Encinitas, Calif.-based measure students' retention of the key particularly in the US, it's clear that chil- technology research firm. And many small concepts indicated that 83% of respon- dren are seen as a very powerful influ- businesses, as well as 70% of the top dents were able to correctly classify 8 types ence on a family's consumer choices. The 2,000 global organizations, will use of waste (green, hazardous, recyclable, same marketing psychology that helps “gamified” applications for marketing, and trash; renewable/non-renewable). sell soda and toys and cigarettes can be employee performance and training, and employed to sell behavior that is good health care by 2014, projects technology “We are so grateful for the shared vision for our health and that of the planet. research firm Gartner. and leadership demonstrated by the Or- ange County Board of Supervisors and One of the leading voices on the posi- OC Waste and Recycling,” said Joe Ad- tives of gaming for human development ams, Discovery Science Center President. is Jane McGonigal, who explains in her “I am proud that Discovery Science Cen- book “Reality is Broken” that gaming is ter is utilizing a first-of-its-kind, state-of- not just a leisure time distraction, but the-art exhibit to educate children and rather the modern manifestation of a parents on the importance of making eco basic human engagement process with -friendly decisions for the long-term.” huge potential for communication and personal empowerment. In her book, Full disclosure: The author's company Grocery Store exhibit McGonigal explains how gaming pro- produced Eco Challenge for DSC as a motes a level of enjoyment that har- design/build project. There are three hands-on, interactive nesses social interaction, individual moti- exhibit areas in Eco Challenge. The Dis- vation and impulses to learn and achieve Half the Sky covery Market simulates a grocery shop- as components of play—which can result ping experience, with interactive displays in a lasting connection to the content The exhibition “Women Hold up Half the on the carts, and engaging animated involved in the game. Sky” which completed its run a few

12 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2 months ago at the Skirball Museum, a “not really an art exhibition... not a col- TRAVELS WITH AN Jewish cultural center in Los Angeles, was lection of artifacts. It’s about ideas. It’s a social call to action. The Skirball part- really about social conscience and focus- EXHIBITION nered with advocacy groups and NGOs ing on certain issues and engaging a to develop it. It was inspired by the criti- broad community.” Stephen Pizzey cally acclaimed book Half the Sky: Turn- ing Oppression into Opportunity for Stepping Up Traveling hands-on exhibitions can boldly Women Worldwide (Knopf, 2009), by go with missionary zeal, taking science to Pulitzer Prize winning journalists Nicholas The Skirball and the other examples in new frontiers. This was my opening com- D. Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn. this article didn't simply offer information, ment for my contribution to the session at art, specimens, or artifacts—it created a the 2012 ECSITE conference in Toulouse package addressing a critical issue in the entitled “Going the Distance with Travel- world today, and it took a definite stance ling Exhibitions”. Out of that came the on that issue. By stepping up and assert- invitation from Robert West to submit this ing such a position, a museum helps article, which draws on my personal ex- people realize the importance of taking a periences. stand themselves. The conventional approach is to present We started in 1987 with the Discovery the wealth of society's knowledge without Dome, a traveling science center com- the activist message. But we are seeing plete with tent and floor, which toured the today that museums are trending toward UK for seven years. During this time, we becoming much more activist—not nec- designed and built Exploring Science, an essarily in the sense of a political exhibition of hands-on exhibits which Painting from Women Hold up Half the Sky. agenda, but in their desire to produce a toured the Middle East and Ethiopia. This The exhibit was a call to action, addressing greater impact from their educational exhibition toured for three years, never the worldwide oppression of women and girls. efforts. Becoming much more direct returning home and became the inaugu- Photo courtesy Skirball Museum. about trying to influence people's atti- ral exhibition for a science center in Addis tudes and behaviors is not something Ababa. These were truly adventurous The exhibition was solution-oriented. It every museum wants to do, but it has times. Since then, with the expansion and addressed the worldwide oppression of become much more acceptable. And maturing of the science center sector, the women and girls, sharing stories from nowadays, amid a heaving sea of infor- scene has become more formal, possibly around the globe of those who changed mation, misinformation, and manipula- less adventurous and probably a lot safer their lives through education, economics, tion, a strong case can be made that this for all concerned. and self-determination. These were pre- is what people need from their museums, sented through documentary photo- more than ever. They need to be able to graphs, visual art, sound installations, turn to the museum as an authentic, le- and interactive gallery experiences, in- gitimate source of considered informa- cluding the opportunity to provide a mi- tion. And because they are museums, croloan to a woman entrepreneur. people trust them to be ethical. Museums must recognize they have this power, and The tools of empowerment were straight- use it wisely and thoughtfully toward a forward. Calls to action came via repre- better world. sentatives from NGOs such as American Jewish World Service, CARE, Coalition to Jonathan Katz is founder and CEO of Abolish Slavery and Trafficking, Interna- The Discovery Dome in Aberdeen, Scotland Cinnabar Inc. He can be reached at 1988. tional Justice Mission, Jewish World [email protected]. Watch, and Peace Over Violence, speak- ing at the museum on weekends, dis- There is nothing like being on the road, cussing actions that visitors could take to arriving somewhere in the middle of the make a difference. A computer station night with 5,000 sq ft (500 sq m) of tent with access to with fifty hands-on exhibits and nervously www.halftheskymovement.org enabled anticipating whether your great idea is visitors to learn of many more opportuni- really so great. Early on in the adventure ties and resources. Postcards to Congress ?? we arrived in the city of Sheffield and as regarding pertinent legislation were we were setting up, a group of children available to visitors, to be mailed by the appeared, inquiring as to what we were Skirball on their behalf. doing. They promptly told us they were Women Hold up Half the Sky exhibit at Skirball Museum director Robert Kir- Skirball. schner said of Half the Sky that it was “Travels,” continued on following page

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“Travels,” continued from previous pate choice of the tent system was made quite Hussein beat us to it when he invaded by chance. I needed a system that was Kuwait in the first Gulf war. The British going to burn it down as we were on their simple and quick to erect. One lunchtime I Council arranged for the exhibition to football pitch. So, I showed them around happened to walk by the South Bank in travel to Brussels instead, which provided saying they might like to try the exhibits London and noticed a grassed area was an opportunity to test the equipment. The before they set fire to the place. While they covered by hexagonal based geodesic exhibition was a small part of a vast festi- were there I asked them to help me move tents. This seemed the ideal solution to the val of science, sport, and various other some flooring and generally help out. problem of having a ‘traveling building’ cultural activities, The exhibition was They agreed it was very good, but they with visual impact and quick assembly. mobbed. We used folding steel frame- would still be back later to burn it down. The exhibits themselves were lightweight, works for the exhibit stands and the exhib- The next day they were back and the Dis- simply constructed, and created from its were mounted on steel framed trays covery Dome was still standing. I got them ideas from colleagues and some old fa- which were located on the stands. The to move the flooring again and told them vorites such as the Bernoulli blower along frames were packed in one set of flight that we could not have had a more loyal with some of my own ideas. cases and the exhibits and graphics in and enthusiastic band of young helpers. another set. Along with the exhibits went The concept worked well, was popular, rolls of floor matting to define the area Everywhere we went we found we could and triggered related activities. It contrib- and a small version of the optics tent as engage local people and recruit them to uted to the setting up of proto science cen- used in the Discovery Dome for the light give demonstrations and assist in running ters. During the tour, a colleague, George and color exhibits. The arrangement was the show. We also found that each loca- Moynihan, then director of the Pacific Sci- that one of our teams would fly out to tion had its own distinct character and ence Center in Seattle, came over to visit assemble the exhibition on arrival at each people were keen to contribute. At one the Discovery Dome in Glasgow, Scot- venue and would train local helpers. My location an enthusiastic visitor offered to land. We discussed the feasibility of a ver- colleague Tim Holdsworth went to Kuwait, bring his glider and set it up outside. He sion for the US. Later, George invited me soon after the Gulf war ended, where the allowed children to sit in the cockpit and over and work began on Science Carni- exhibition was close to destruction as he gave lectures about flight to the onlookers. val, which was based on the same gen- watched from the taxi as cases tumbled At another location students from the uni- eral system of tents and exhibits. I noted one by one from the moving truck onto versity gave demonstrations and set up some cultural differences during the plan- the road. A lesser man would have crum- experiments for the visitors. Above all, it ning stages. First regarding the budget, bled, as they say, but it was a tribute to was the welcoming atmosphere and so- George and his team were talented fund Tim who not only suggested using steel in cial activity that was most impressive. The raisers and there were no money worries. the first place but repaired everything in tent, the hands-on exhibits, and the visitors So, there were no sleepless nights in Seat- time for the formal opening attended by have convinced me that small local sci- tle although there had been plenty in Lon- Her Royal Highness Princess Anne. ence centers with their own distinct char- don. Second, I was getting nowhere trying acter would be a good thing. to arrange overnight security. In the UK we used a security guard with a dog, no I have to admit that the Discovery Dome problem. As I commented once, those was not actually a dome. It was com- yellowing bloodshot eyes and snarling prised of five interlocking geodesic tents, teeth were quite a deterrent to any in- or put more grandly, pavilions, one of truder and the dog was scary too. In Seat- which was blacked out for light and color tle, security companies were concerned exhibits and another used as a demon- about safety issues related to using dogs. stration area. The main area was made After trying several companies who gave up of three modules with the inner walls the same story, I was informed that the removed to house the exhibits, the recep- guard would have a gun. Of course, why tion desk, and a small shop. There were didn’t I think of that? The tents also got The opening of Exploring Science in also some outdoor exhibits, At one venue caught up in a mini tornado whereas in Kuwait 1992. a sponsor, British Gas, hired some extra the UK we just had gales. tents to show exploration equipment and The adventure really had begun. give demonstrations. As for setting up, the Cultural differences were a feature of our exhibits traveled in one truck and the tent tour with Exploring Science traveling exhi- The tour proceeded from Kuwait to loca- and flooring in another. The size of the bition. The exhibition was originated by tions in Oman, Sharjah (UAE), Jordan, trucks was restricted to the size which ourselves and funded by the British Coun- and Ethiopia. The venues were selected could be driven on a normal UK driving cil, whose charter describes its mission as by the local British Council offices and licence. Also, some of the locations were ‘promoting abroad a wider appreciation associates in the countries concerned. not accessible to larger vehicles. The ex- of British culture by encouraging educa- They assisted in every way by providing hibits were built in our then small work- tional and other interchanges between the background and advice and arranging shop in London. At that time, there was a United Kingdom and elsewhere’, mean- meetings and events. In my own case staff of five including myself— which has ing the world. The first venue was in- they also organized visits to schools and since expanded to around thirty. The tended to be in Kuwait City but Saddam other institutions.

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Ethiopia was the final destination where hands-on exhibits and the presence of six London and the rural idyll of the Observa- the exhibition remained and contributed large telescopes in their exotic domes set tory is quite striking. The work carried out to the beginnings of a small science center around a lily pond make it special and for other museums and science centers in Addis Ababa. The landscape, the peo- unique. This atmospheric setting contrib- helps fund our own projects, which en- ple, their eagerness to learn, and the op- utes in no small part to the fond regard ables the organization to operate without portunity for us to work to help with the the visitors have for the center. revenue funding from outside. All the new center left a lasting impression. activities operate under a not for profit company with charitable status called This relationship with the British Council Science Projects Ltd., which was estab- continued for many years afterward. We lished in 1987 to raise funds for the Dis- ran practical exhibit-making workshops covery Dome. such that we became involved in planning science centers elsewhere. The British This seems to be a good operating model Council were also instrumental in bringing and so far has all turned out rather well. visitors from overseas to see the Discovery May the adventure continue! Dome and arranged return visits. I recall preparing some exhibits for a workshop in Stephen Pizzey is Founder and Director of India, after such as visit. One exhibit used Our science center opened in 1995 using Science Projects Ltd., a UK company with sticks and string to draw ellipses in the exhibits from the Discovery Dome. charitable status. Further information can sand. The director of the proposed center, be found by visiting www.science- who became a great friend, took me to The center has continued to grow and projects.org and www.the-observatory.org one side and kindly informed me that now has an extensive program of events villagers will save for years to visit the city. and workshops including observing eve- He said that they want to see palaces and nings and an annual astronomy festival. wonders, not mess around with sticks in These events are constantly reviewed and the ground. expanded. There are also science shows and guided tours of the telescopes, of This was many years ago and we have which four of the six major instruments since grown as a company with our own have been restored to working order. An science center, traveling exhibitions service interesting feature of the exhibitions is and development workshop in London. that two exhibition areas are reserved for But, we are still believers in the power of our traveling exhibitions, which grew hands-on exhibits to cross cultures and from the original Exploring Science exhi- inspire young minds. bition. There are now a total of eleven traveling exhibitions which visit science The remaining tents of the Discovery centers and museums in the UK and Dome now stand with the permanent overseas as well as the Observatory. Visi- telescope domes of our Observatory Sci- tor surveys show that the public responds ence Centre which occupies the former positively to the continual refreshment of telescope domes and buildings of the the exhibitions. There is also an outreach Royal Greenwich Observatory (RGO) at program using our Science Works cur- Herstmonceux, East Sussex in the south- riculum linked table top exhibitions for east of England. The telescopes were schools. The Observatory has eleven full- moved there from Greenwich, London in time equivalent staff members plus vol- the 1950s to escape the enveloping lights unteers. Students are hired during the of the city. The observatory closed in summer holidays. The attendance has 1990 and we took a long lease on the been rising and the center now attracts observatory buildings and grounds to around 60,000 visitors per year. transform the site into a science center with an outdoor exhibit park. The venture The traveling exhibitions are operated to set up a science center and restore the from our design and production work- telescopes to full working order was de- shop in London, where we build exhibits scribed in one national newspaper as a for museums and science centers world- labor of love, unfolding in the Sussex wide, as well as for our own projects. The countryside, and is perhaps the best trib- output from the workshop has risen con- ute the center could have as it recognizes siderably over the years and so have the the sense of mission. Although the idyllic number of staff. Our workshop now occu- rural setting away from the city hardly pies an industrial unit—a far cry from the seems an ideal location for a science cen- garage space we started in. The contrast ter in terms of catchment, the mix of between our somewhat gritty location in

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THE CURIOSITY CORNER: their studies into how children learn, The Child as Scientist – Examples at the which allows them to do much more Sciencenter A PLACE FOR YOUNG than would be possible by asking parents SCIENTISTS TO EXPLORE to come in to a university laboratory. But Cognitive scientists have for decades this partnership also greatly benefits the been interested in how children learn, AND LEARN Sciencenter and its visitors. The research and have studied the specific strategies takes place on the floor of the and mechanisms of learning in early Michelle Kortenaar, Tamar Kushnir, and Sciencenter’s early childhood exhibition- childhood. The most recent research Charlie Trautmann —the Curiosity Corner. Parents, shows that children learn much as caregivers and educators have the scientists do: through their play they are “Scientists learn about the world in three opportunity to see scientific research in experimenting, testing hypotheses and ways: They analyze statistical patterns in action. They can interact with researchers generating causal explanations. the data, they do experiments, and they and discuss current theories about how Moreover just as scientists do not make learn from the data and ideas of other children learn, while observing as discoveries alone, children discover many scientists…Recent studies show that children “play” with researchers. things through social interaction with one children also learn in these other and by asking for information from ways.” (Gopnik, 2012) helpful, interested, and engaged adults.

A young child sits at a table, face in deep The critical lesson from decades of concentration, as a puppet show is research is that children’s scientific minds performed just for her. In it, a frog and a develop through explorationof both the penguin place small colorful blocks on physical and social world. The process of the surface of a toy box one at a time. children’s scientific learning can be When the frog is playing the box lights up broken down into four interacting learning and makes music, and when the penguin mechanisms—curiosity, persistence, plays it doesn’t. “Here are some more Research in the Curiosity Corner imitation, and explanation—all of which blocks,” says a friendly adult. “I want to emphasize either or both exploratory play know which ones make the toy play and social interaction. Science centers music. Who should I ask?”“Froggy!” Says Across the country, science museums, can facilitate this learning by providing the child, smiling, “Because Froggy children’s museums, and even natural interactive exhibits and programs for knows how it works!” history museums have been teaming up preschool educators, parents, caregivers, with researchers at major universities to and children. In particular, for our The child watching the puppet show had create “living laboratories” such as ours. youngest visitors, the Curiosity Corner fun, but she was also learning. These partnerships lead to scientific features safe, hands-on activities, suitable Researchers are also learning from the discoveries while at the same time for small bodies, which are specifically child. She, and others like her, can easily increasing awareness on the part of designed to facilitate the development of infer from a few observations that the parents, caregivers, and educators about scientific skills through exploration. frog made the toy light up because he the role of science museums in fostering knew how, and the penguin did not. early cognitive and social development. The four learning mechanisms can be observed in the young scientist at play— This is an example of a now familiar Children learn everywhere—at home, in whether she is in the lab or the museum. scene at the Sciencenter in Ithaca, New playgrounds and preschools. Many At times we, as researchers and museum York. Part science research, part science adults remember local neighborhoods, educators, expect young children to exhibit, this study is part of an NSF- playgrounds, and parks as the safe explore on their own though play with funded project on early childhood places where, as children, they explored objects and materials they can touch and learning taking place at Cornell and learned about the world. These see. We also expect that children cannot University. In this study, a team of days, especially in urban settings, science find out about everything on their own. researchers are trying to find out how centers such as ours are the new safe, Thus, in the lab and in the museum children use their developing “Theory of social space for exploration and learning space, we offer opportunities for children Mind”—their ability to think about the to take place. Moreover, science and to use their social capacities to learn—to mental states (knowing, thinking, children’s museums provide particularly watch, to question, and to work together. feeling, wanting) of other people—to rich environments where learning learn new things. through exploration is encouraged and 1. CURIOSITY expected. When children and their Why Science Museums as Research families visit interactive, hands-on The lab: Children are naturally curious Centers? museums they find creative, engaging about things they don’t yet understand, learning experiences. Thus, science and which leads to further exploration. When By working at the Sciencenter, Cornell children’s museums have for yearsbeen at play they will gravitate towards objects researchers are able to simultaneously putting the most cutting edge research in and events that are unpredictable or recruit and interview child participants for developmental science into practice.

16 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2 unknown (Schulz & Bonawitz, 2007; expectations for the future are based on The museum: At the air station in our Cook, Goodman & Schulz, 2011). the statistics of these past experiences. Curiosity Corner, it’s not always obvious The museum: As museum educators, we how the foam shapes are meant to be often notice how children’s attention sucked through a vacuum tube. After spans can be seemingly much longer failed attempts, we have seen children than that of their parents. A rubber duck naturally turn to their parents for floats down the moving current of the guidance; they watch as their parents water table—an observation that requires experiment and figure out what to do. repetitive testing. Children will ask for the Then the child is ready to take on the role same game to be played over and over of young experimenter, imitating what again. We have designed our Curiosity they see until they get the desired Corner to have comfortable seating to outcome. encourage parents to linger as their children engage in persistent repetition. During story time, parents actively engage in the finger play that 3. IMITATION accompanies songs. Children mimic the adults, moving their fingers to make “itsy The lab: Children are precocious bitsy” spiders, clapping their hands in imitators of others—when they can’t do gleeful appreciation. In the make-believe Blowing air to make “music” something themselves they observe kitchen, children share fanciful meals others and imitate them. But young with their peers—setting the table, children do not just imitate everything serving the “food”. Their pretend play The museum: Children, at first almost by they see, but rather they imitate thus imitates the events of the past—the accident, hold a tube of blowing air up to selectively, based on various social and meals they’ve seen made and served in pipes of different lengths. The unexpected statistical cues. Sometimes children their own homes. result is sound in differing pitches, a imitate actions with clear goals—actions surprise that requires testing. The that are related to interesting effects 4. EXPLANATION Curiosity Corner has a variety of (Buschbaum, Gopnik, Griffiths & Shafto, unfamiliar objects—things that make 2011). Other times children will imitate The lab: Many abstract scientific concepts unexpected sounds, that have varying just for fun, as a way to bond with others, are invisible and intangible—bacteria textures, that can be manipulated by leading them to learn actions that have and viruses, the movement of planets, small hands and that encourage children no obvious consequences but are animal behavior—preschool children to safely engage and explore with all of nonetheless important (Over and routinely ask questions and seek their senses. Carpenter, 2012). Thus, imitation is a explanations for these abstract ideas powerful mechanism for both scientific (Callanan & Oakes, 1992; Frazier, 2. PERSISTENCE and cultural learning.

The lab: Children make inferences about cause and effect gathering statistical evidence, using that evidence to predict and explain events in the world around them (Kushnir & Gopnik, 2005; Kushnir, Xu & Wellman, 2010). Thus they often play by persistently repeating the same actions over and over again, and their

Making observations at the bee hive Experimenting with the vacuum tube and foam shapes Playing with water in the Curiosity Corner “Corner,” continued on following page

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“Corner,” continued from previous pate These new course projects fit in with other 2. How can an exhibit space be de- early childhood focused initiatives. Our signed to encourage more robust and Gelman & Wellman, 2009). In fact, the “Science for Young Minds” program prolonged learning behaviors in our same curiosity that motivates exploratory sends museum educators to local youngest visitors? play also motivates explanation-seeking preschools to model inquiry-based behavior.They ask “why” when events science and science literacy for 3. What are the most effective tools and are unexpected or surprising (Legare, educators—giving caring, helpful adults strategies to give early childhood edu- Gelman & Wellman, 2010). the knowledge they need to scaffold cators for working with young chil- children’s scientific growth both inside dren? The museum: At the Sciencenter we have and outside the museum. Our weekly a live animal collection. Children watch, Story Time, which takes place in the References: fascinated, as bees come and go from Curiosity Corner, encourages parents their hive, collecting nectar. The and children to explore books and Buchsbaum, D., Gopnik, A., Griffiths, T. unpredictable behavior of the bees elicits activities with a science theme. L. & Shafto, P. 2011. Children’s imitation much curiosity, and, since they cannot of causal action sequences is influenced touch or play with them, we have seen The Sciencenter’s mission is “To inspire by statistical and pedagogical evidence. children trying to find out more about excitement for science through interactive Cognition, 120(3): 331-340. bees by asking any adult they are with - exhibits and programs that engage, grilling them with questions from “Where educate, and empower.” The Callanan, M., & Oakes, L. 1992. is the queen?” to “Why do they go in and collaboration between the museum and Preschoolers' questions and parents' out so much?” to “What’s he doing?” Cornell’s Early Childhood Cognition Lab explanations: Causal thinking in This makes for a lively and interactive has helped to engage young children as everyday activity. Cognitive Development, exhibit where the “expert” is the person they explore and learn. Beyond that, 7(2): 213-233. who can read the exhibit labels. parents, caregivers, and educators are empowered to support children’s Cook, C., Goodman, N., & Schulz, L. E. Broader Benefits learning. Researchers and students of 2011. Where science starts: Spontaneous cognitive science have also been experiments in preschoolers' exploratory The partnership with Cornell’s Early engaged, educated and empowered as play. Cognition, 120(3): 341-349. Childhood Cognition Lab has resulted in they observe and study children’s other new programs that will benefit the learning and apply what they’ve learned Frazier, B. N., Gelman, S. A., & youngest children entering the world of a in the world outside of the lab. Wellman, H. M. 2009. Preschoolers’ science museum for the first time. For search for explanatory information within example, though it is helpful to have a In conclusion, we believe that adult-child conversation. Child separate space for preschoolers to safely partnerships such as this one benefit all- Development, 80: 1592- 1611. explore and play, very young children —researchers, science centers, and their parents at times would also like community members, graduate and Gopnik, A. 2012. Scientific thinking in to try some of the more sophisticated undergraduate students, and most of all young children: Theoretical advances, exhibits that are intended for older kids. young child scientists. In fact, we believe empirical research, and policy Working together, we designed an these partnerships are the premier model implications. Science, 337: 1623-1627. assignment for an advanced cognitive for scientific engagement, and can be development seminar at Cornell. The replicated in a variety of informal Kushnir, T., Xu, F. & Wellman, H. M. goal was for students to use the concepts educational contexts. We hope others 2010. Young children use statistical they had been studying in class to create will be inspired to make connections sampling to infer the preferences of oth- a tool to help parents navigate the larger between the worlds inside and outside ers. Psychological Science, 21: 1134- museum in a meaningful way with their the science lab. 1140. preschool-age children. Students created a series of museum “scavenger hunts” Future Questions: Kushnir T.& Gopnik, A., 2005. Children for children and parents. Each infer causal strength from probabilities scavenger hunt used all four of the As our museum-university collaboration and interventions. Psychological Science, learning processes discussed above— has developed over the past year, we 16: 678-683. curiosity, persistence, imitation and have found three primary challenges, explanation. We envision continued which are listed below. We are actively Legare, C. H., Gelman, S. A., & refinement of this assignment year after seeking answers, which will benefit our Wellman, H. M. 2010. Inconsistency with year. It is a good example of the future visitors as well as our research partners: prior knowledge triggers children's causal of our partnership—more ideas useful for 1. How can we help parents feel com- explanatory reasoning. Child Develop- Sciencenter guests, for researchers, and ment, 81 (3): 929-944. fortable and confident in their role as for students learning to apply their knowledge of cognitive development in “knowledgeable” adults when an- Over, H., & Carpenter, M. 2012. Putting the real world. swering their children’s questions? the social into social learning: Explaining

18 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2 both selectivity and fidelity in children's Michelle Kortenaar is the Director of director of Cornell’s Early Childhood copying behavior. Journal of Compara- Education at the Sciencenter in Ithaca, NY Cognition Laboratory. She can be tive Psychology, 126: 182-192. and can be reached at reached at [email protected]. Charlie [email protected]. Tamar Trautmann is the Executive Director of the Schulz, L.E. and Bonawitz, E. B. 2007. Kushnir is the Evalyn Edwards Milman Sciencenter in Ithaca, NY and can be Serious fun: Preschoolers play more Assistant Professor of Child Development reached at [email protected]. when evidence is confounded. Develop- in the Department of Human mental Psychology, 43(4): 1045-1050. Development at Cornell University and

Commentary digitally savvy and connected, utilizing only robust option for the integration of and indeed developing new ways to inte- video into the content (and we had lots of REFLECTIONS: grate technology into their everyday lives, it) was to use Adobe Flash. By the time it they are required to turn their devices off was launched, the IPhone and IPad were INTEGRATION OF NEW in school. So one of the most powerful well on their way towards market domi- TECHNOLOGY IN BOTH tools for communication, creativity, infor- nance, and Apple had made the decision mation, and learning is shut off by policy to not support Flash…oops. FORMAL AND INFORMAL in the very setting it could and should be EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS most useful. Finally, instruction continues So back to the drawing board, we have to be measured and indeed funded by decided to abandon the site, and migrate Alexander Zwissler formulas that value hours of time students the entire online experience to a mobile [Editor’s Note: This article was initially are sitting in the classroom rather than the game format that will be available across published on October 2, 2012, as a blog quality of the learning. all platforms…but here again, even dur- on the website of the California Associa- ing the time of development, IOS 6 is tion of Museums.] Clearly some daunting challenges… launched and Amazon comes out with Combine these with reduced resources, the Kindle Fire. We’ll be able to deal with This past year I had the opportunity to sit pockets of resistance to change from every this, but the point is, what will happen 6 on the California State Superintendent of corner (teachers, school boards, adminis- months after we launch…after one year? Education’s Education Technology Task- trators, textbook publishers, etc.), and an Look around your institution…how many force. Comprised of primarily educators ever changing playing field, more and cool digital exhibits or interactives look and school administrators (I was an out- more at an accelerating pace, one can dated or downright ancient, at least by lier), we had the charge of providing Su- appreciate the depth and breadth of the modern tech standards. The point is, I perintendent Tom Torlakson with a series challenge for formal education. feel we need to seriously rethink how we of strategic recommendations that would go about integrating technology into our help shape his California Education And while I encourage you to read our exhibit development cycles. One ap- Technology Blueprint; essentially a plan recommendations, and indeed take the proach is to figure out how to best use for how to transition, if not transform opportunity to engage in the process of our visitor’s devices, rather than trying to education in the era of modern technol- transformation, for the purposes of our impose our judgment on which platform ogy. Our report can be found here: Cali- field I think there are some interesting les- will best serve the user…unless we do so, fornia State Superintendent of Educa- sons and parallels from these challenges my feeling is that we’ll be wrong more tion’s Education Technology Taskforce that we should be paying attention to. often than we’ll be right. Report (http://myboe.org/cognoti/ content/file/resources/documents/ First, there needs to be the simple recog- Another point from the task force is that in 68/6888f59f/6888f59f10eb3403fb69e nition of the fact that the world outside is formal education we need to ensure that 00110c12515bb735e3a/ moving at a pace of change and innova- there is a connection with learning and FinalETTFMemo.pdf). tion that our institutions are rarely able to the real world. A short hand way of think- adequately adapt to. I’ll use some recent ing about this is moving from theory to Some fascinating facts to set the context work here at Chabot Space and Science practice or applicability. A simple example for our work…currently, it can take up to Center as an example. In conjunction might be that rather than having lectures six years for the State to adopt a new with our Bill Nye’s Climate Lab, we de- on chemistry, have the student work in a textbook into the approved curriculum. veloped a highly engaging interactive lab or a brewery to see and experience Technologies are born, mature, and then website designed to connect and inte- the application of chemistry in the real die within that timeframe. A newly intro- grate the visitor experience with the Cli- world…Beer! For our field, I feel that too duced text today would not even mention mate Lab. We used an award winning often we do a great job of laying out the the IPhone, let alone Twitter or the whole design firm and indeed created a rich theory, and even compelling examples of App phenomenon. How can a traditional and wonderful site…in fact we were it, yet rarely connect back out to current textbook keep up with this pace? Sec- nominated for a Webby for our applicability. The challenge here is that ond, while most students, and nearly all work….One problem…at the time we started the development of the site, the by the time they reach high school, are “Reflections,” continued on following page

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“Reflections,” continued from previous page speaks to the point that learning can, television, music and yes, text book pub- should and does take place at times lishing) if we do not actively participate in our examples are often static, fixed in time other than sitting in the class listening to our own creative destruction, we will be- and place (and yes, even if they are a lecture. In fact, many argue that little come the victims of its outcomes rather “digital”), while the real world is dynamic. real learning occurs in such a setting. Yet than the master. Again, tough to keep up, yet that’s what is like the classroom with its Victorian era expected of us in today’s world. constructs, we too often require the mu- Alexander Zwissler is the Executive Direc- seum visitor to take us on our terms tor/CEO of the Chabot Science & Space Finally, another principle from the task- rather than meeting them on theirs. I feel Center, Oakland, California. He may be force that I think has some applicability that long term this is not sustain- reached at [email protected]. for us is that learning should occur “any able. Like every other content provider time, any place and at any pace”. This (look what’s happening in journalism,

WHAT IS BIODIVERSITY? prey relationships, parasitism, symbio- and reptiles, in particularly rapid decline. ses, commensalisms, pollination, etc. They also estimated that as many as 50% Mike Bruton  The diversity of plant and animal be- of the world’s plants and animals could 2010 was the United Nations “Year of havior. go extinct in the next 100 years at the Biodiversity”, and we are now in the UN  The diversity of habitats, ecosystems present rates of decline. and biomes, including soil and water. ‘Decade of Biodiversity’ (2011-2020). Yet Taxa that have recently gone extinct in-  how many people understand the con- The diversity of human relationships clude a subspecies of the western black cept of biodiversity? with, and uses of, plants and animals. rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis longipes,  The diversity of domesticated and from western Africa whereas the northern One of the challenges facing science genetically modified plants and ani- centers is to demystify complex issues white rhino, Ceratotherium simum cottoni, mals. and the Javan rhino, Rhinoceros son- without dumbing them down so much  The diversity of humans. that they lose their true meaning. I think daicus, are almost certainly extinct in the wild. The dugong, Dugong dugon, is that we, and the scientific community and Every animal with different life-history popular media at large, are dumbing expected to go extinct within the next 40 stages (e.g. egg-caterpillar-pupa-adult) is years. Fortunately, there are also some down the important concept of biodiver- effectively more than one ecological spe- sity, which is traditionally regarded simply good news stories—the southern white cies and should be counted several rhino, Ceratotherium simum simum, is as the number of different species. In times. Biodiversity should also include the fact, to most people, animal diversity is back from the brink of extinction with its variation within species and especially the numbers increasing from a few hundred the variety of large, adult vertebrates and extent and nature of the interactions be- th familiar invertebrates. at the end of the 19 century to over tween species, even if this is difficult to 20,000 today. Central Asia’s Przewalski’s It was recently, and rather triumphantly, measure. Biodiversity isn’t a simple, hier- horse, Equus ferus, has moved from announced that an international study archical Darwinian tree but a complex ‘critically endangered’ to ‘endangered’. has predicted that there are about 8.74 interlinked web. Perhaps our pattern– million species of plants and animals on forming minds tend to underestimate the Recent research on the economics of Earth. These include 7.77 million species messy complexity, and subtlety, of nature. biodiversity has revealed that the eco- nomic consequences of today’s biodiver- of animals (of which only about 953,000 In fact, biodiversity should be everything have been described) and about sity loss can be valued at between $1.5 that we lose when a species goes extinct, trillion and $3 trillion. Furthermore, envi- 298,000 species of plants; the rest are all its interconnectedness as well as the fungi, single-celled animals and algae. ronmental economists have estimated the biological memory of the millennia of value of the so-called ‘free services’ that But surely a species count is the crudest “research and development” that took measure of this important concept? natural plants and animals offer to hu- place to make it a species in the first mans, which could potentially be lost. Biodiversity should include: place. Defined in this way, we are still a The pollination of crops, for instance, is long way from describing the true extent valued at $150 billion per year.  The diversity of living as well as extinct of plant and animal diversity, and meas- species. uring our impact on it. Of course, an exciting aspect of biodiver-  The diversity of different life-history sity research is that new species are being forms. Understanding the concept of biodiversity discovered every year. The International  Diversity above and below the species is essential if we are to comprehend the Institute for Species Exploration at Ari- level. full impact of humankind on natural spe- zona State University, and an interna-  The diversity of the relationships be- cies. The IUCN recently estimated that tional committee of taxonomists, selects tween animals, plants and animals, about one third of the 61,900 animal the ‘Top Ten New Species’ each year. In and animals and micro-organisms. species on their list are now classified as 2011 this list included a glow-in-the-dark These relationships include predator- “vulnerable”, “endangered”, ‘critically mushroom, a batfish as flat as a pan- endangered” or “recently extinct”, with cake, a Titanic-munching bacterium, a some groups, such as the amphibians 20 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2 leech with enormous teeth, a two-meter Karachi at a cost of 1.74 million Pakistan months conducting paleontology and geol- long fruit-eating lizard, a jumping cock- rupees, or $18,000 U.S. dollars. It pre- ogy research in Pakistan and Nepal. I did roach, an orb-web spider whose webs sents Baluchitherium osborni as a creature field work in the area where the Baluchith- are wide enough to span a river, and a standing 18 feet high at the shoulder and erium quarry is located and am very famil- duiker first found in an African bush meat weighing approximately two tons. iar with social and political circumstances market! under which the specimens were collected The locality where the fossils were col- (and likely destroyed). I am delighted with Developing a formula that predicts the lected was abandoned before work was the approach of the museum toward en- true complexity of nature would be the completed due to political and security gagement with the public and am very biologist’s equivalent of the physicist’s concerns. It is now suspected that the site pleased to see (online) visitors of both gen- ‘Theory of Everything’. That’s the role of was destroyed in a military action in ders sharing the museum experience.] the scientists, but it is our role, as science 2006, and specimens stored in a local educators, to provide a true picture of the chieftain’s home also are lost. Robert Mac West is the editor and pub- complexity of biodiversity, and the conse- lisher of The Informal Learning Review. He quences of its potential loss due to extinc- The significance of this installation was may be reached at tion, in our teaching programs. clearly pointed out by senior officials at the [email protected]. Mike Bruton is MTE Studios Director, opening ceremony. They indicated that, in Kingdom of Bahrein. He may be reached the face of serious financial pressures at [email protected]. (and a well-known political/military/ NEW ANNUAL insurgent environment in contemporary PUBLICATION Pakistan), there is a serious effort to pro- mote science and technology in Pakistan NEW EXTINCT and that the museum plays an important Exhibit designer Seth! Leary inaugurated role in this. an annual publication at this year’s MAMMAL ON ASTC conference in Columbus, OH. EXHIBIT IN PAKISTAN A release from the Associated Press of Exhibit is (in its inaugural issue) a 24- Pakistan states the following: page, full-color overview of various ex- Robert Mac West hibit initiatives (of course, including sev- “The (Federal) Minister (for Science and eral of those done by Seth!). In addition, Technology Changez Khan Jamali) The Pakistan Museum of Natural History the 2012 issue includes a commentary lauded the PMNH’s efforts in research, th (PMNH) in Islamabad very recently on the 50 anniversary of the Pacific documentation, conservation, preserva- (October 24) unveiled the installation of Science Center, a visit to the Wabash & tion and display of the natural history of a life-sized model of Baluchitherium os- Erie Canal Park in central Indiana, and Pakistan as well as its role in public edu- borni, a huge, 30 million year old, a trip that Seth and his son took on U.S. cation.” “He said this new addition to the hoofed mammal. This model is based on Route 66 through central and south- displays in the museum will be of im- superb fossil materials found and inter- western United States that resulted in a mense interest for students and the gen- preted by a Pakistani-French team be- traveling exhibit by the same name. eral public.” tween 2000 and 2003 at a phenome- Leary is making this magazine available nally rich site in trans-Indus (central- “PMNH Senior Operational Manager western) Pakistan. Original specimens to interested parties at no cost. It is Akhtar Javed also spoke on statutory func- available in hard copy as well as at are on display at the Geological Survey tions of the museum and contributions to of Pakistan museum in Quetta. www.exhibitmagazine.com. Contact natural history research and biodiversity him at NRG! Exhibits, 10922 126th conservation as well as public education.” The model is based on careful measure- Place NE. Kirkland, Washington 98033, or [email protected]. ments and arrangement of the fossil Javed is quoted in an release as stating: bones and was prepared in fiberglass by “Nowadays education through museums Pakistani artist Muhammad Asim Mirza in is being regarded as indispensable. PMNH is striving hard for the promotion of informal education through different means, mainly through visitations of school and college students to the Mu- seum Display Galleries.”

The PMNH is open six days per week (closed Fridays) from 9:30 to 4:30. Ad- mission is five rupees (U.S. five cents).

[Author’s note: I include this brief article in the ILR for a very personal reason. In the Baluchitherium model being installed. late 70s and early 80s I spent the winter

21 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2

THE 2012 IG NOBEL Craig M. Bennett, Abigail A. Baird, Fluid Dynamics Prize: Rouslan Krechet- Michael B. Miller, and George L. nikov (USA, Russia, Canada) and Hans PRIZE WINNERS Wolford, 2009. Mayer (USA), for studying the dynamics of liquid-sloshing, to learn what happens Winners were announced and awarded Reference: "Neural Correlates of Inter- when a person walks while carrying a on Thursday night, September 20. The species Perspective Taking in the Post- cup of coffee. ceremony was webcast live. For more Mortem Atlantic Salmon: An Argument information, check the “ceremony page” For Multiple Comparisons Correction," Reference: "Walking With Coffee: Why on www.improbable.com. Craig M. Bennett, Abigail A. Baird, Mi- Does It Spill?" Hans C. Mayer and chael B. Miller, and George L. Wolford, Rouslan Krechetnikov, Physical Review E, Psychology Prize: Anita Eerland and Rolf Journal of Serendipitous and Unexpected vol. 85, 2012. Zwaan (The Netherlands) and Tulio Gua- Results, vol. 1, no. 1, 2010, pp. 1-5. dalupe (Peru, Russia, and The Nether- Attending the Ceremony: Rouslan Kre- lands) for their study "Leaning to the Left Attending the Ceremony: Craig Bennett, chetnikov. Makes the Eiffel Tower Seem Smaller." Abigail Baird, Michael Miller, and George Wolford. Anatomy Prize: Frans de Waal (The Reference: "Leaning to the Left Makes the Netherlands and USA) and Jennifer Eiffel Tower Seem Smaller: Posture- Chemistry Prize: Johan Pettersson Pokorny (USA) for discovering that chim- Modulated Estimation," Anita Eerland, (Sweden and Rwanda), for solving the panzees can identify other chimpanzees Tulio M. Guadalupe and Rolf A. Zwaan, puzzle of why, in certain houses in the individually from seeing photographs of Psychological Science, vol. 22 no. 12, town of Anderslöv, Sweden, people's hair their rear ends. December 2011, pp. 1511-14. turned green. Reference: "Faces and Behinds: Chim- Attending the Ceremony: Tulio Guada- Attending the Ceremony: Johan Pettersson. panzee Sex Perception" Frans B.M. de lupe. (Note: Two days after the cere- Waal and Jennifer J. Pokorny, Advanced mony, Anita Eerland and Rolf Zwaan will Literature Price: The US Government Science Letters, vol. 1, 99–103, 2008. marry each other, in the Netherlands.) General Accountability Office, for issuing a report about reports about reports that Attending the Ceremony: Frans de Waal Peace Prize: The SKN Company recommends the preparation of a report and Jennifer Pokorny. (RUSSIA), for converting old Russian am- about the report about reports about munition into new diamonds. reports. Medicine Prize: Emmanuel Ben-Soussan and Michel Antonietti (France) for advis- Attending the Ceremony: Igor Petrov Reference: "Actions Needed to Evaluate ing doctors who perform colonoscopies the Impact of Efforts to Estimate Costs of how to minimize the chance that their Acoustics Prize: Kazutaka Kurihara and Reports and Studies," US Government patients will explode. Koji Tsukada (Japan) for creating the General Accountability Office report SpeechJammer — a machine that dis- GAO-12-480R, May 10, 2012. Reference: "Colonic Gas Explosion Dur- rupts a person's speech, by making them ing Therapeutic Colonoscopy with Elec- hear their own spoken words at a very Physics Price: Joseph Keller (USA), and trocautery," Spiros D Ladas, George slight delay. Raymond Goldstein (USA and UK), Karamanolis, Emmanuel Ben-Soussan, Patrick Warren, and Robin Ball (UK), World Journal of Gastroenterology, vol. Reference: "SpeechJammer: A System for calculating the balance of forces 13, no. 40, October 2007, pp. 5295–8. Utilizing Artificial Speech Disturbance that shape and move the hair in a hu- with Delayed Auditory Feedback", Kazu- man ponytail. Reference: "Argon Plasma Coagulation in taka Kurihara, Koji Tsukada, arxiv.org/ the Treatment of Hemorrhagic Radiation abs/1202.6106. February 28, 2012. Reference: "Shape of a Ponytail and the Proctitis is Efficient But Requires a Perfect Statistical Physics of Hair Fiber Bundles." Colonic Cleansing to Be Safe," E. Ben- Attending the Ceremony: Kazutaka Kuri- Raymond E. Goldstein, Patrick B. War- Soussan, M. Antonietti, G. Savoye, S. hara and Koji Tsukada. ren, and Robin C. Ball, Physical Review Herve, P. Ducrotté, and E. Lerebours, Letters, vol. 198, no. 7, 2012. European Journal of Gastroenterology Neuroscience Prize: Craig Bennett, Abi- &Hepatology, vol. 16, no. 12, December gail Baird, Michael Miller, and George Reference: "Ponytail Motion," Joseph B. 2004, pp 1315-8. Wolford (USA), for demonstrating that Keller, SIAM (Society for Industrial and brain researchers, by using complicated Applied Mathematics) Journal of Applied Attending the Ceremony: Emmanuel instruments and simple statistics, can see Mathematics, vol. 70, no. 7, 2010, pp. Ben-Soussan. meaningful brain activity anywhere — 2667–72. even in a dead salmon. Attending the Ceremony: Joseph Keller, Not all of the Ig Nobel Prizes are Reference: "Neural correlates of interspe- Raymond Goldstein, Patrick Warren, shown. Visit http://www.improbable. cies perspective taking in the post- Robin Ball. mortem Atlantic Salmon: An argument com/ig/winners/#ig2011 for multiple comparisons correction," for more.

22 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2

“Citizen,” continued from back cover collaborations between scientists, in- ago, when they became extinct--with mates, prison staff and others to enable many other species--at the end of the eas in order to help scientists determine inmates to conduct ecological research last glacial period. how and why the ranges of various eco- and conserve biodiversity. An NSF press nomically and ecologically important release features the Moss-in-Prisons pro- Participation fee $18 species of ladybugs are currently rapidly ject at Cedar Creek Corrections Center, Expenses $ 0 changing. a medium security prison in Littlerock, Spend the time outdoors  The Community Collaborative Rain Washington. Location anywhere Hail and Snow Network measures and Children yes maps rain, hail and snow levels A Real Example Primary school yes throughout the United States. Users of To bring this down to earth, here is the Secondary school yes this organization's data include the Na- material distributed by the Ithaca, New Teaching materials yes tional Weather Service, meteorologists, York, Paleontological Research Institute hydrologists, emergency managers, city about its focused citizen science pro- Required Gear: utilities (water supply, water conserva- gram, the Mastodon Matrix Project. tion and storm water), insurance adjust- Matrix is shipped to your organization ers, the USDA, engineers, mosquito goal Help paleontologists study in one kilogram bags - one kilogram control, ranchers and farmers, outdoor past environments. will be enough for about 20-25 par- enthusiasts, teachers, students and local ticipants. residents. task Analyze actual samples of fos-  The Citizen Sky Program solves mys- sil matrix mailed to your To analyze the matrix, you will need teries involving the cyclic dimming of a home. the following gear: newspapers, paper particularly bright star known as Epsilon plates, toothpicks, a magnifying glass, Aurigae, based, in part, on nightly ob- The Mastodon Matrix Project needs and plastic baggies/jars with wide servations of the star's brightness that are citizen volunteers to analyze actual mouths and tight fitting lids. Also help- recorded by citizen scientists using every- samples of matrix (the dirt) from a ful are: one or more embroidery thing from the naked eye to high-tech 14,000 year old mastodon excavated hoops with a piece of scrim (or other equipment. in New York! Learn the process of sci- gauzy curtain material), a clean fine  The editor of Sky & Telescope dis- ence and work like a paleontologist on mesh or grease splatter screen, a cussed the importance of contributions real research material! scale, a low-power microscope, an made by citizen scientists to the develop- overhead projector, an old toothbrush, ment of recent new insights about Epsilon Volunteers sort through the matrix to paper towels, coffee filters, and a col- Aurigae in two video interviews, as well find shells, bones, hair, pieces of ander or funnel. as the particular importance of recruiting plants, and rocks from the time when citizen scientists into astronomical re- the mastodons lived and roamed the Resources and Step-by-step instruc- search during periods of shrinking re- Earth. The matrix and discoveries are tions on how to conduct the analysis search budgets. In addition, the March then sent back to the Paleontological will be mailed with your order, and 2012 issue of Sky & Telescope features Research Institution, where they will be can also be found here: http:// an article covering this topic. cataloged and further analyzed by www.museumoftheearth.org/  Einstein@Home uses donated time paleontologists to help scientists form research.php?page=Mastodon_ Re- from the home and office computers of a true picture of the ecology and envi- search/Mast_Matrix 250,000 volunteers from 192 countries ronment of the late Pleistocene. to help process the enormous amounts Robert Mac West is the Editor and pub- of data that are generated in the search Mastodons are extinct relatives of lisher of The Informal Learning Review. for various astronomical phenomena. modern elephants. Mastodons were He may be reached at The program has helped scientists dis- numerous and widespread in North [email protected]. cover about one new pulsar per week America up until around 10,000 years throughout 2012.  Quake-Catcher Network links the computers of volunteers into a network that sifts through seismic signals and helps determine whether detected mo- tions represent earthquakes or cultural noises, such as slamming doors and the motions of large trucks. Recently, the Quake-Catcher Network detected a tremor 10 seconds before the shaking reached Stanford University's campus. Mastodon skull at the PRI The Sustainable Prisons Project forges Photo: Paleontological Research Institution

23 THE INFORMAL LEARNING REVIEW, Sept. – O c t . , 2 0 1 2 The Informal Learning Review 1776 Krameria Street, Denver, Colorado, 80220

and now regularly funds a large variety via varied programs involving invento- CITIZEN SCIENCE – of citizen science projects. An April 2012 ries of the abundance and distribution of GROWING, post of the NSF describes a sample of birds over large distances; analyses of the projects currently being supported how birds are affected by climate EXPANDING, (http://www.nsf.gov/discoveries/ change, urbanization and land use; the disc_summ.jsp?cntn_id=123903): Top development of new methods for identi- CONTRIBUTING of Form fying birds; and advice for individuals for converting their backyards into bird- Robert Mac West  The USA National Phenology Net- friendly habitats. work brings together citizen scientists,  Much of the data included in the For the past several years, the concept of government agencies, nonprofit groups, Department of Interior's annual State of citizen scientists working as integral parts educators and students to monitor the the Birds report for 2011 originated from of scientific research projects has be- impact of climate change on plants and Cornell's citizen science programs. The come increasingly popular and perva- animals in the U.S. Many scientific pa- report helps public agencies identify sig- sive. What previously was a minor aspect pers on changes in the timing of sea- nificant conservation opportunities in of specimen and data collection and sonal events have been based on this various habitats. processing has evolved significantly. group's data. The Coastal Observation and Sea- Many scientists and institutions have  Project Budburst engages the public bird Survey Team collects data on quickly realized that using the enthusi- in collecting data on the timing of the beached birds found on more than 300 asm and skills of numerous citizens can leafing, flowering and fruiting of plants beaches from the north coast of Califor- greatly expand their data-gathering and in the United States. Data generated by nia to Alaska in order to help monitor processing capabilities and, upon occa- Project BudBurst was recently used to ecosystem health. sion, introduce new concepts and ap- help validate models of the timing of  The Lost Ladybug Project recruits proaches into a research project. cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., residents of geographical areas through- and the mid-Atlantic states in the pres- out the United States to submit photo- The US National Science Foundation has ence of climate change. graphs of ladybugs from their local ar- recognized the importance and effective-  Projects sponsored by the Cornell ness of using the massive resource of the Lab or Ornithology help researchers broad public to expand research projects better understand birds and their habits “Citizen,” continued on page 23

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