Though the following response pertains specifically to Indiana, similar programs are offered in other states. Regional workshops are conducted throughout Indiana. The majority of higher education institutions conduct inservice training programs. Regional education service centers also conduct workshops. The experience that teachers gain from hands-on learning opportunities has important benefits.
Universities frequently hold preservice and inservice workshops.
However, one of the most effective methods of continuous growth as a teacher is regular reading of professional journals. From the very beginning, these teachers asked us to help them learn the science behind the exhibits. The role of informal learning is not just to accomplish objectives of attitude and conceptual change through thoughtful exhibitry, but also to foster practice and success in science teaching and learning within families and social groups. After all, family, museum, and school together share responsibility for the science environment of each child. All parties in this shared responsibility have much to learn, yet only the teacher is pivotal to all three.