What Factors Influence Pedagogical Methods in Informal Learning Spaces?

Informal STEM education programs, such as the University of Colorado Boulder-sponsored Partnerships for Informal Science Education in the Community (PISEC) outreach program, present unique opportunities to study pedagogical methods; student participation is largely voluntary and programs are often designed toward affect goals rather that content. Previously, it has been observed that PISEC university educators (UEs) tend to employ three broad pedagogical “modes” as they engage with students (Hinko, PRPER 2016). To determine the factors that influence their choices to engage in one or more modes, we surveyed UEs before and after training in these pedagogical modes, recorded and analyzed in-situ video of their teaching, and performed semi-structured interviews that included stimulated recall of their teaching. We will here discuss our methodology and findings, including factors that affect discrepancies between UEs’ stated and enacted pedagogical preferences, and implications for improving teacher preparation in the informal sector as well as potentially in the classroom.