Exploratorium

The Exploratorium will investigate the potential for museums to influence the lifelong science learning trajectories of "emerging adults" (ages 18-29 with no children). This research project will look at the impact of a museum visit on four related cognitive and emotional domains within emerging adults: interest in science topics and process; beliefs about the relevance of science to their lives; feelings of their own self-efficacy in science; and self-identity and its relationship to science. Results of this study will be shared with the field to better equip practitioners with the tools to attract, engage, and connect learners with science in ways that persist over time. This study is intended to lay the groundwork for in-depth future research into the most significant areas of impact.