Chapter 9 wrapped up what we have been talking about all semester: combining informal science learning with formal science learning.

In one of my first reflections, I remember including that informal science learning was simply insufficient towards having a firm grasp of scientific concepts. Nearly all of the knowledge of science that I have today is a result of formal science learning. That being said, formal science learning just doesn’t get the job done sometimes. The knowledge gained from formal science learning is not always practical. I personally learn more interesting material when I watch a TED talk or something of that nature. The chapter discusses some of the struggles between linking formal science learning to informal science learning. It talks about how the kind of learning that is done in informal settings such as museums, parks, and zoos is very different from the kind of learning that is done in formal settings such as a classroom or library. I think perhaps the biggest challenge to linking formal science to informal science is the rigid curriculum schools have to follow. I’m sure schoolteachers would love to teach in a more informal manner that their students would enjoy and have more interesting course material but strict and rigid guidelines to not allow for such freedom. Furthermore, the book speaks about how informal science learning is free-choice and I think this is a very important aspect as well. When you choose to walk up to something that you want to learn and make a decision to learn independently, this is when the material is retained best. However, when you are forced to learn something in school, even if it is interesting and of value, you will not retain it as well because you did not freely choose to learn this topic.