Session 9: Science, museums and amusement parks

9.1 A comparison of UK science museums and visitor attractions
Michael Cassidy, University of Warwick, United Kingdom

Abstract
The talk contrasts the organisational structure and guiding principles of both museums and science visitor attractions; exploring the learning that binds them. Science museums have a long history and established collections, whilst science visitor attractions have been developed more recently with a broad remit including education, entertainment and urban regeneration. Both organisations aim to improve scientifi c literacy and the education of young people; but there can be a tension between the aims of education and those additional responsibilities. This talk explores that tension using both educational and sociological perspectives.