Advisor

• Dr. Min Liu

Degree

• Masters

Abstract

Learning beyond the boundaries of school often occurs in informal learning environments. Informal learning environments include places such as museums, science centers, and centers for after-school programs. A common element of these types of learning environments is student choice in terms of when and how to participate. Although after-school programs provide a space for learning outside of the classroom, research has shown that students in after-school informal learning environments more often participate in sports activities or non-educational games than pursue academic tasks. Motivation may be a key factor in getting students to choose to learn in these environments. Combining problem-based instruction with technology may be a useful technique to encourage students to learn in informal environments. Evidence from current literature and field research conducted for this report are used to provide suggestions for design technology for informal learning environments that can motivate students to learn.