Science Hobbyists as Learners and Educators: Participation in the STEM Learning Ecosystem

• In Event: 49.089 - Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: 49.089-9 - Informal Learning Environments Research SIG Poster Session

Abstract

Science hobbyists are intrinsically motivated, self-directed learners who engage in free-choice learning. Sharing their hobby and contributing to the science learning of others in their communities is an important facet of many hobbyists’ hobby involvement. Understanding how hobbyists use the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) ecosystem to learn about their hobby, and form partnerships with institutions and groups in that ecosystem to educate others, are the goals of this study. Interviews were conducted with 107 science hobbyists (58 astronomers and 49 birders). Results show the importance of organizations that facilitate hobby-related social interactions including hobby clubs, formal learning institutions, and informal learning institutions. Differences in interactions between astronomers and birders with these organizations and groups are described.

Authors

• Elysa Corin, Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics

• M. Gail Jones, North Carolina State University

• Thomas Andre, Iowa State University

• Gina Childers, North Carolina State University

• Rebecca Hite, North Carolina State University