Transforming Outdoor Spaces into Learning Spaces through Mobile Technologies for Family Science Learning

• In Event: Technology-Enhanced Learning

Abstract

Our team created a suite of mobile learning apps to support rural families to learn science outdoors during their out-of-school time. We designed four mobile apps for families to use in four different types of outdoor community places: A nature center, arboretum, children’s garden, or families’ backyards to learn about science in their community. Our research analyzed the experiences of 116 families (167 parents/legal guardians, 209 children) using screen-recordings, GoPro cameras, and pre- and post-interviews. We describe design features of the mobile apps along with research findings on their efficacy. Across the four apps, families showed significant science learning gains from pre- to post- experience assessment. Implications for design of microlearning apps to support outdoor family learning are suggested.

Authors

• Susan M. Land, Pennsylvania State University

• Heather Toomey Zimmerman, Pennsylvania State University

• Lillyanna Faimon, Pennsylvania State University

• Yu-Chen Chiu, Pennsylvania State University

• Charles Keith, Pennsylvania State University

• Leqi Li, Pennsylvania State University

• Yanping Xu, Pennsylvania State University