ERIC Number: EJ1377726
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023-May
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-8756-3894
EISSN: EISSN-1559-7075
Informal Learning in United States Libraries: A Systematic Review
Tawfik, Andrew A.; Gatewood, Jessica; Armstrong, Laura; Shepherd, Craig E.
TechTrends: Linking Research and Practice to Improve Learning, v67 n3 p550-560 May 2023
Libraries may serve as a way to bridge educational equity gaps through informal learning programs. This is especially true in the United States where inequality is a growing concern at local, state, and federal levels. While the informal learning literature within the United States highlights innovative practitioner reflections and design cases, few articles have attempted to synthesize empirical trends that outline cognitive and affective learning outcomes. To address this gap, this systematic review explored empirical studies of K-12 informal learning programs within United States libraries. The findings suggest a focus on initiatives within public libraries and STEM learning, especially in urban settings. That said, many studies presented qualitative data and reported on affective learning outcomes, which leads to questions as to the extent of learning gains and replicability. Implications for practice are discussed.
Descriptors: Informal Education, Public Libraries, Literature Reviews, Trend Analysis, Outcomes of Education, Cognitive Processes, Affective Behavior, STEM Education, Elementary Secondary Education
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2123/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Information Analyses
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A