Abstract

In this article, the potentials of advanced technologies for learning in science exhibitions are outlined. For this purpose, we conceptualize science exhibitions as dynamic information space for knowledge building which includes three pathways of knowledge communication. This article centers on the second pathway, that is, knowledge communication among visitors. We argue that advanced technologies have specific potentials to support all forms of visitor-to-visitor knowledge communication and, furthermore, allow for new forms of knowledge communication among unacquainted visitors and beyond the actual museum visit. We discuss mechanisms of collaborative learning with regard to their relevance for visitor-to-visitor knowledge communication and present prototypical advanced media applications in science exhibitions that address these mechanisms. This article both contributes to our understanding of collaborative learning in science exhibitions and the support advanced technologies can provide for visitor-to-visitor knowledge communication in science exhibitions.

Citation

Knipfer, K., Mayr, E., Zahn, C., Schwan, S. & Hesse, F.W. (2009). Computer support for knowledge communication in science exhibitions: Novel perspectives from research on collaborative learning. Educational Research Review, 4(3), 196-209. Elsevier Ltd. Retrieved June 27, 2022 from https://www.learntechlib.org/p/76400/.

Keywords

• computer mediated communication
• Computer Software
• computer-supported collaborative learning
• Cooperative learning
• educational technology
• Exhibits
• Informal Education
• informal learning
• Information Communication Technologies
• knowledge communication
• Multimedia Materials
• museums
• science education
• Science exhibitions
• Web Based Instruction