Evidence for informal science learning

Research carried out by the Science Communication Unit in 2013 to identify evidence on informal learning in STEM.

Commissioned by the Wellcome Trust the Science Communication Unit carried out research in 2013 to identify evidence on informal learning in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

The SCU compiled relevant evidence based on the latest research. The Wellcome Trust was keen to identify evidence that included the impacts that informal learning in STEM has on young people (defined in the case of this project as up to 19 year olds). The SCU also identified the contributions (knowledge, confidence, curiosity, communication etc.) that informal experiences make to STEM education.

The evidence identified by the SCU have been used in an infographic by the Wellcome Trust. The research was undertaken by Dr Margarida Sardo and Dr Clare Wilkinson.