Effects of an informal energy exhibit on knowledge and attitudes of fourth- and fifth-grade students

David Wayne Goodman, Purdue University

Abstract

This dissertation addresses the growing need for renewable energy education by looking at the design, development, and implementation of an informal energy education exhibit that was developed for placement into a regional science museum, school, and community center. This study examined several research questions related to the concept that an informal energy education exhibit would yield an increase in participant’s knowledge of energy concepts as well as motivation for and attitudes towards renewable energy. The results of this study suggest that fourth- and fifth-grade students can benefit from interacting with the exhibit. The participants learned facts about energy and renewable energy, as a result of interacting with the exhibit, and showed positive attitudes toward the exhibit and the energy topics associated with the exhibit.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

French, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Elementary education|Educational technology|Energy

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