Playing with Science

Models for Engaging Communities

Abstract

This field report provides examples of how “play” is a model for science education in informal environments. By utilizing community settings such as parks during the summer, schools in the evening, and museum space on the weekend, these examples provide accessible contexts for children and their families. The contexts, methods, and activities of each of these examples are described in order to suggest the wide variety of ways in which science education can be woven with community through play.