Learning Talk Among Middle School Students at a Science Museum Exhibit

• In Event: Innovation in Informal Learning Environments for Diverse Communities

Abstract

Informal learning environments play an increasingly vital role in promoting science learning among children. However, there are many questions about how children co-construct knowledge in these settings. Using a sociocultural perspective, this study examines patterns of learning talk among small groups of middle school students at an informal science museum exhibit. Results indicate that students engage in dynamic conversations while engaging with exhibit components, frequently switching between different kinds of learning talk. Patterns of student talk also suggest that specific categories of learning talk often co-occur in students’ discussions of exhibit components. Implications for research and exhibit design are discussed. 

Authors

• Janice L. Anderson, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
  Presenting Author

• Jill V. Hamm, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
  Non-Presenting Author

• Ross Ramsey, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
  Presenting Author

• Mengyi Mao, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill
  Presenting Author