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Special Report
Special Report

Science Learning Outside the Classroom

April 6, 2011
As concern mounts that U.S. students lack sufficient understanding of science and related fields, it has become increasingly clear that schools can鈥檛 tackle the challenge alone. This special report explores the field often called 鈥渋nformal science education,鈥� which is gaining broader recognition for its role in helping young people acquire scientific knowledge and skills. Opportunities abound outside the classroom to learn about science, and to inspire a passion for it. Zoos and science museums, robotics clubs, science competitions, and online games are just a few of the options to engage American youths. Education Week reporters examine what informal science education looks like in practice, and what we know about its impact, its potential, and the challenges it faces.
  • IT Infrastructure & Management Science Shared on Online Communities
    With the availability of user-friendly home cameras and desktop publishing, thousands are posting videos and websites dedicated to science.
    Sarah D. Sparks, April 1, 2011
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    7 min read
    Student Well-Being Researchers Play Catch-Up in Gauging Beyond-School Effects
    What's measured about science learning in the classroom differs from what's measured outside the classroom.
    Sarah D. Sparks, April 1, 2011
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    7 min read
    Whyville residents may have to battle against the infectious 鈥榃hyPox鈥� or they can visit a bioplex to conduct research.
    Whyville residents may have to battle against the infectious 鈥榃hyPox鈥� or they can visit a bioplex to conduct research.
    Student Well-Being Games and Simulations Help Children Access Science
    With all the time today's youths spend on computers and mobile devices, technology can serve as a familiar vehicle for learning.
    Katie Ash, April 1, 2011
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    5 min read
    Bill Yucuis encourages his students at Lyman High School in Longwood, Fla., to participate in science competitions. Seniors, from left, Brandon Kaiser, Spencer Brint, and Robert Kagel work on a miniature rocket for an upcoming contest.
    Bill Yucuis encourages his students at Lyman High School in Longwood, Fla., to participate in science competitions. Seniors, from left, Brandon Kaiser, Spencer Brint, and Robert Kagel work on a miniature rocket for an upcoming contest.
    Hilda M. Perez for Education Week
    Curriculum Science Competitions Integrated Into Curriculum
    Taking part in contests both inside and outside school enables young people to delve deeper into the subject and witness its application.
    Sean Cavanagh, April 1, 2011
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    7 min read
    Evelyn Cari帽o, left, Brian Ventura, and Valerie Estrella take part in a river cleaning activity at the Bronx River in New York. The students are enrolled in Heroes in Conservation, an after-school program coordinated by the Committee for Hispanic Children and Families.
    Evelyn Cari帽o, left, Brian Ventura, and Valerie Estrella take part in a river cleaning activity at the Bronx River in New York. The students are enrolled in Heroes in Conservation, an after-school program coordinated by the Committee for Hispanic Children and Families.
    Helena Yordan for Education Week
    Student Well-Being Environmental Issues Inspire Children to Dig Into Science
    Informal science programs that focus on the environment hook young people because they are about issues that really matter to their lives.
    Caralee J. Adams, April 1, 2011
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    6 min read
    Student Well-Being Role of Science Learning Outside of School Grows
    Learning opportunities are plentiful, from after-school programs to computer simulations to zoo visits.
    April 1, 2011
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    10 min read
    Student Well-Being National Science Foundation Deemed Leader in Informal Learning
    The federal agency provides some $65 million annually to support after-school programs, traveling exhibits, film production and community projects, and cyber-enabled learning.
    April 1, 2011
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    6 min read
    Early Childhood Independent Play Fosters Discovery in Youngsters
    When it comes to science, much of what very young children learn comes through informal means.
    Mary-Ellen Phelps Deily, April 1, 2011
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    6 min read
    Jackeli Queli views her multiplying faces inside a giant kaleidoscope during Family Science Night at the Explora Science Center in Albuquerque, N.M.
    Jackeli Queli views her multiplying faces inside a giant kaleidoscope during Family Science Night at the Explora Science Center in Albuquerque, N.M.
    Kitty Clark Fritz for Education Week
    Science Science-Rich Institutions Provide Venues for Exploration
    Science centers, museums, botanical gardens, zoos, and aquariums help the public gain better understanding of science.
    April 1, 2011
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    11 min read