AAAS's New Book Explores Research Behind Informal Learning Environments

As standards and approaches for teaching mathematics, science and reading at the grade-school level are debated among educators and policymakers, a new book published by AAAS offers a straightforward, research-based resource on learning. In addition to offering advice for teachers, "Learning: The Science Inside" describes the biological bases and social contexts of learning, how learning changes across the lifespan and strategies to boost learning.

The 98-page book is part of an effort to show evidence of how experiences in schools and non-classroom, everyday settings—such as in the home, at museums or churches, and online—interact to support learning. "We know that context matters in learning," said Shirley Malcom, who heads AAAS's Education and Human Resources programs. "But not enough attention is paid to everyday learning environments."

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