This document aligns Oregon state educational benchmarks and standards with Oregon Zoo resources. Benchmark areas examined include English, mathematics, science, social studies, and career and life roles. Brief descriptions of the programs offered by the zoo are presented. (SOE)

Science beyond the schoolhouse is the subject of this close-up look at informal science--education in non-traditional settings, including Boys and Girls Clubs, 4-H, zoos, aquariums, and public television. More than a dozen writers draw on personal experiences to tell why they became informal science educators and how they use the history and…

Applies research on the instructional effectiveness of science-oriented field trips to humane education programs. Advocates the use of animal-related field trips and provides guidelines for excursion activities. (ML)

The goal of this teacher guide is to promote education by providing resources and information to aid classroom teachers in using the Oregon Zoo as an educational setting. The unit also emphasizes the integration of science, mathematics, reading, writing, speaking, and problem solving. It is designed for grades 3-5 and is based on the Oregon State…

In order to help students more effectively, it is necessary to know how students use and perceive mathematics in out-of-school settings. Discusses some mathematical concepts and processes--such as the concept of function and the process of estimating--which provide evidence of students' mathematical ideas. (ASK)

Provides an overview of NATURESPACE, 4-H's new approach to environmental education. Explains its origin, philosophical orientation, and program possibilities. States how the goals of environmental literacy, personal resource management, citizenship, life-long learning, and career awareness are addressed through a variety of programs. (ML)

Field trips don't have to be grueling. This practical guide helps teachers work together with science educators in the community to avoid common pitfalls that interfere with the many science-learning opportunities that exist in museums, parks, and science centers. The book offers tips and strategies on selecting community resources for field…

Described is a comprehensive approach which was used to develop, implement, and assess educational programs for four specific Kinabulu Park audiences: general park visitors, school groups, local villagers, and the public reached by mass media. (CW)

In 1992, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) launched a 3-year project titled Natural Resources for Equity in Science: Connecting Museums and Community Groups, also known as Project MOSAIC (Museums Offering Science Assistance in the Community). This manual and accompanying video, designed by Project MOSAIC, covers…

Neville Bennett's controversial research into primary teaching styles unearthed one informal teacher, who obtained higher learning gains from her children than any other teacher in the sample. The author reports on how she handles more than a thousand individual contacts a day. (Editor)

Reviews a research study that examined zoo visitors' understanding of wildlife before and after zoo visits. Low posttest scores suggested that a zoo experience is regarded as a recreational outing rather than an educational event. Implications for educational improvement are presented. (ML)

This document describes the Exploratorium Framework project which is a model initiative demonstrating the vital role science museums play in science education reform. Contents include: (1) "The Four Thematic Exhibit Experiments (An Overview)"; (2) "Themes (Looking at the World through Theme-Colored Glasses)"; (3) "Creating…

The varied roles animals had and currently have in different cultures are discussed in this report. Samples of roles drawn from a catalog of 1000 examples indicated that animals have been used throughout history as food, clothing, pets, heroes, mascots, trademarks, and symbols. Suggestions were stated for using this listing of animal roles in a…

Provides descriptions of the various types of nature centers with emphasis on how they are funded, managed, and staffed. Includes a listing of the programs offered by nature centers. (ML)

Presents a model based on the Premack Principle which utilizes preferred learning activities to promote the career development of students during free time in the classroom. Free time can be reconceptualized as a medium for extending learning beyond formal instruction. Examples of preferential career activities are described. (Author)