Oh, the Places We Learn! Exploring Interest in Science at Science Fiction Conventions
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| Title: | Oh, the Places We Learn! Exploring Interest in Science at Science Fiction Conventions |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Childers, Gina M. (ORCID |
| Source: | Electronic Journal for Research in Science & Mathematics Education. Win 2022-2023 26(4):40-61. |
| Availability: | Southwestern University and Texas Christian University. TCU Box 297900, Fort Worth, TX 76129. Tel: 817-257-6115; e-mail: ICRSME.Consultation@gmail.com; Web site: http://ejrsme.icrsme.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 22 |
| Publication Date: | 2023 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: | Science Fiction, Conferences (Gatherings), Science Interests, STEM Careers, Informal Education, Science Education, Information Utilization, Adults |
| ISSN: | 2692-241X |
| Abstract: | Science fiction conventions are places where individuals with an interest in diverse genres and mediums can engage with a community that bridges the world of science fiction and fact. Many of these conventions provide a science "track" where science experts share their expertise and research on scientific findings and applications of science with science fiction enthusiasts. This study explored science fiction conference attendees' (n = 241) interest in science, as well as how attendees (n = 172) plan to utilize science shared at science track sessions. Survey responses were analyzed within "STEM career" groups by comparing science track and non-science track attendees, and documenting what science track attendees plan to do with the information gained at a science track session. There were no differences in how science track attendees and non-science track attendees with STEM careers reported their interest in science. For the attendees that did not report having a career related to STEM, science track participants reported higher interest scores than non-science track attendees. Over half of the science track attendees (66%) shared they will apply what they learned from a science track session to their own personal context. Furthermore, the demographics of the survey respondents may suggest that science fiction conventions are an untapped science learning environment connecting to a younger, more diverse community. Overall, recognizing the benefit of science fiction conventions is crucial to provide spaces for accessible venues of science communication to foster an interest in science for a diverse, public audience. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2023 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1378391 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | Science fiction conventions are places where individuals with an interest in diverse genres and mediums can engage with a community that bridges the world of science fiction and fact. Many of these conventions provide a science "track" where science experts share their expertise and research on scientific findings and applications of science with science fiction enthusiasts. This study explored science fiction conference attendees' (n = 241) interest in science, as well as how attendees (n = 172) plan to utilize science shared at science track sessions. Survey responses were analyzed within "STEM career" groups by comparing science track and non-science track attendees, and documenting what science track attendees plan to do with the information gained at a science track session. There were no differences in how science track attendees and non-science track attendees with STEM careers reported their interest in science. For the attendees that did not report having a career related to STEM, science track participants reported higher interest scores than non-science track attendees. Over half of the science track attendees (66%) shared they will apply what they learned from a science track session to their own personal context. Furthermore, the demographics of the survey respondents may suggest that science fiction conventions are an untapped science learning environment connecting to a younger, more diverse community. Overall, recognizing the benefit of science fiction conventions is crucial to provide spaces for accessible venues of science communication to foster an interest in science for a diverse, public audience. |
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| ISSN: | 2692-241X |
