Public science events (PSEs) are an increasingly popular mode of informal science engagement. The burgeoning research on PSEs suggests a number of important benefits for visitors to these events, including increased scientific knowledge, improved attitudes toward science, and an increased awareness of science in everyday life. However, these…

Responding to calls for an empirical glimpse into a socioscientific issues (SSI)-based curriculum that aims to promote democratic participation, enhance students' connections to science, and empower students for the betterment of society (Dos Santos, 2008; Sadler, Barab, & Scott, 2007; Tal & Kedmi, 2006; Fusco & Barton, 2001; Hodson, 2003), this…

The availability of political information throughout society made possible by the evolution of contemporary information communication technology has precipitated conflicting debate regarding the effects of technology use on real life political participation. Proponents of technology argue that the use of new information technology stimulates…