Two ‘old hands’ comment on the next generation’s ideas. NEXT GENERATION refers to different aspects: new content, a new generation of exhibition-makers, modern forms of exhibition design or contemporary educational strategies. We'll consider together the following questions:
- Why do we consider phenomena as particularly successful for inspiring people about science?
- How far can we use models instead of phenomena without losing fascination?
- How does the next generation convey phenomena in an exciting way?
- What and how should we "explain" about them?
- How long have certain phenomena been around and would they be conveyed in the same way today as in classical science centre times?
Facilitator
Session speakers
Exhibit development
Heilbronn
Germany
In the experimenta we started the Pure Phenomena Project last year: The aim is to find out how natural phenomena can be presented in the 21st century. We are currently planning to build a prototype for a digital phenomenon and to reinterpret a prototype of a "well-known" phenomenon in the next three months.
Manager of exhibition and programs
Wolfsburg
Germany
Real phenomena and their perception are at the core of phaenos interactive exhibits. But how should we present new technologies and concepts that go beyond the classic natural phenomena? As part of the quantum technology future initiative, phaeno is working with the Technical University of Braunschweig and with qutools to develop an exhibit about quantum entanglement. When conducting the experiment the visitor could use the support of AR glasses. Whom does quantum entaglement reach and what technical and didactical hurdles are along the way?
Director, Esplora & Chairperson National STEM Engagement Working Group
Kalkara
Malta
At Esplora, a STEAM-based approach to learning about phenomena is adopted. The aim is to mix the critical thinking and problem-solving aspects with creativity so as to have a holistic approach to creating curious minds. Research shows that curiosity is an antecedent of learning. In various instance the art of storytelling is used to instil curiosity about various phenomena through ‘STEM through Stories’ programmes.
Science Centre Consultant
Winterthur
Switzerland
What is real? The second generation of science centres presents phenomena in isolation so that they can be explored, but does this reality reflect the Visitor’s experience of science in everyday life. The third generation of Science Centres use Community Participation to co-create exhibits with their community. But does this produce a more relevant exhibition? And does it sufficiently value the experience gathered by the the second generation?
Chief Instigator
POW! (Paul Orselli Workshop, Inc.)
Long Island, New York
United States
For nearly 40 years, Paul Orselli has worked to create inventive and playful museums and exhibits projects in North America, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. He has taught and lectured at numerous universities on museum topics and has presented at professional conferences around the world.
Despite being an "old hand“ Paul is still always thinking about new ways to create exhibit experiences, although he wonders whether every new phenomenon actually needs an exhibit.