Summative Evaluation - OMSI

Summative Evaluation of OMSI’s Technoquest (Innovation Station) p. 37D.3. Designing and Inventing in This ExhibitionOVERVIEW: The vast majority of kids (88%) agreed that they had “learned a lot about howthings work,” and two-thirds of them felt that they had “designed or invented something.”Children most frequently mentioned building bridges or towers and making the flying papercups. Younger kids (age 8–10) and girls were more likely to say they had “definitely learnedhow things work.” Familiar visitors and those who rated themselves as very comfortablewith technology were more likely to say they had designed or invented something. It appearsthat, on repeat visits, new layers of experience open up.Here are some different statements and opinions about the exhibits.For each one, tell me does it describe your experience?[5 statements; other results in sections C6 & D2]CHILD EXITINTERVIEWSDefinitely Somewhat Not ReallyKIDS I learned a lot about how things work 45% 43% 12%KIDS I designed or invented something 50% 13% 37%Children who say they “definitely” learned how things work** 53% of girls38% of boys** 51% of 8-10 year olds36% of 11-14 year oldsChildren who say they “definitely” designed or invented** 61% of those who are very comfortable with technology42% of those who are less comfortable** 63% of familiar visitors (those who have previously seen the new hall)45% of unfamiliar visitors (first-time seeing the new hall)Research report by People, Places & Design Research © OREGON MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, August 2005