Animal Inside Out: Controversies, Objects, and Participants' Experiences at a Science Museum

• In Event: The Nature and History of Science in Science Education: Philosophies, Spirituality, Controversies, and Curriculum

Abstract

This research is part of an ongoing project that examines controversial exhibitions in science museums. This case study reports on the exhibit Animal: Inside Out. Specifically, we sought to: 1) explore the notion of controversy through visitor and museum staff perspectives, and 2) understand the role of controversy in science museum landscapes. Initial findings, gathered through visitor and staff interviews, visitor observations and comment cards suggest that the exhibit generates controversies predominantly external to science, related to participants’ emotional/visceral reactions and potential conflicts with ethical, cultural, and/or religious values. The exhibit also prompted techno-ethical dilemmas, which inhabit an intersection between internal and external controversies. Findings highlight the evolving roles and responsibilities of science museums in contemporary society.

Authors

• Daniel Atkinson, University of Toronto

• Erminia G. Pedretti, OISE/University of Toronto

• Ana Maria Navas Iannini, University of Toronto