e-mail: evansem [at] umich.edu
Most recently, and in collaboration with colleagues from diverse disciplines, from exhibit and software
developers
to human-computer interaction researchers, we have created four exhibits, on display in museums across the
United
States. These exhibits serve two interrelated purposes: (1) compelling informal learning experiences based on
children's intuitive science concepts and (2) laboratories for investigating children's conceptual development
and
families' science learning.
Evolution and Health (NIH) (University of Michigan Consultant; Learning Scientist) The creation of a traveling exhibition to assess whether making evolutionary concepts personally relevant increases acceptance of evolution (includes one year formative test site at the University of Michigan). Currently on display at the New York Hall of Science
Charlie and Kiwi's Evolutionary Adventure (NSF) (University of Michigan PI; Learning Scientist) Co-developer traveling exhibition to test whether informal science interventions prepare children to accept the scientific basis of evolution by targeting their intuitive concepts. Associated book: Charlie and Kiwi's Evolutionary Adventure. Currently on display at the New York Hall of Science (traveled to 10 museums across the US)
Explore Evolution (NSF) (University of Michigan Consultant; Learning Scientist) Creation of seven evolution components (from the Diatom to the Whale) on permanent display in six Midwest museums (including the UM Museum of Natural History) and an associated book.