Based in Corvallis, Oregon, USA, John H. Falk Ph.D is the Director of the Institute for Learning Innovation and Emeritus Sea Grant Professor of Free-Choice Learning at Oregon State University. He is a leading expert on free-choice learning; the learning that occurs when people have significant choice and control over the what, where and when of their learning. Dr. Falk’s current research focuses on understanding the identity/self-related reasons people utilise free-choice learning settings during their leisure time; studying the community impacts of museums, libraries, zoos and aquariums and helping cultural institutions re-think their educational positioning in the 21st century. His awards include the NARST: A worldwide organisation for improving science teaching and learning through research Distinguished Career Award ( 2016); Oregon State University, University Outreach and Engagement Vice Provost Award for Excellence, Innovation-Partnerships Award (2016); Council of Scientific Society Presidents Award for Educational Research (2013) and American Alliance of Museums John Cotton Dana Award for Leadership (2010).

John’s expertise includes biology/ecology, long-term effects research, and self/identity-related learning motivations. His favourite free-choice learning activities include tending to his Japanese garden, painting, design, swimming and hiking.