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The Impact of Science & Discovery Centres: A Review of Worldwide Studies

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This review summarises and highlights recent research into the impact of science and technology museums, zoos, aquaria and science centres, referred to collectively in this report as Science & Discovery Centres. Comparable evidence from the informal learning sector as a whole including the arts, heritage and cultural sectors has also been included, where relevant.

Collectively, studies from around the world show that centres can:

  • increase visitors’ knowledge and understanding of science;
  • provide memorable learning experiences which can have a lasting impact on attitudes and behaviour;
  • have wide-ranging personal and social impacts and promote inter-generational learning;
  • promote trust and understanding between the public and the scientific community;
  • have an economic impact.

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