No abstract

We acknowledge that we are on traditional lands of the O'odham, Hohokam, and Yavapai people. We honor their stewardship of the land, past, present and future. We engage our students in climate science/NGSS so we can learn to make good decisions that heal our planet and protect our environment.

Informal Science Education (ISE) programs have been increasing in popularity in recent years. The National Research Council has laid out six strands that ISE programs should try to address, including increasing interest, knowledge, and allowing participants to engage in scientific activities. Past research suggests that informal settings can increase interest in science and may lead to knowledge gains. This study examined the impact of a unique ISE program that resembles a traveling museum and offers small‐scale, interactive experiences. Affective outcomes and self‐reported learning outcomes of the students who participated in the program were examined. In general, students reported increases in science interest and some knowledge gains. Students also reported they thought the program allowed them to engage in science. There were differences in student responses based on grade level, with intermediate elementary students more likely to report greater knowledge gains and more likely to see the educational value of the experience. Interestingly, middle school students were more likely to value the social aspects of the experience, another important aspect of ISE. This study provides some insight into the connections between the different ISE strands of informal science education and offers suggestions for future research.

It is important that we prepare tomorrow's scientists, decision makers, and communities to address the societal and ecological impacts of a changing climate. In order to respond to, mitigate, and adapt to those changes, community members of all ages need accurate, up-to-date information, knowledge of the sciences, and analytical skills to make responsible decisions and long-term climate resiliency plans regarding these challenging topics. The Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness Network (CLEAN, http://cleanet.org) is 1) providing teaching resources for educators through the CLEAN Collection and pedagogical support for teaching climate and energy science and solutions; and 2) facilitating a professionally diverse community of climate and energy