Examining Nature of Science Portrayal in Science Museum Exhibits Using the Families of Resemblance Approach

• In Event: AERA Research in Progress Roundtable Session One
  In Invited Roundtable: Research-in-Progress RT038 (Wednesday)

Abstract

Ongoing concerns about inaccurate and narrow depictions of science can create misunderstandings and restrict participation in science learning. Recent science museum exhibits address these issues in innovative ways that have not yet been studied. My study is a qualitative collective case study of selected exhibits from different scientific disciplines and museum contexts that uses the Families of Resemblance Approach (FRA)framework to examine how Nature of Science (NOS) is represented. The study will help answer questions about NOS depiction at science museums at time when educators understand that how science is portrayed is consequential for science engagement of diverse audiences and for improving critical science literacy.

Author

• Rachel Byard Garcia, Ohio University