Using a digital platform to mediate intentional and incidental science learning

Abstract

This chapter challenges the distinction between informal and formal science learning in the context of learning science from online resources, arguing instead for consideration of intentional and incidental science learning. The New Zealand Science Learning Hub (sciencelearn.org.nz) is used as an example to demonstrate how both intentional and incidental learning can be supported. The aim of the Hub, which is Government-funded, is to make contemporary science research and development more accessible to teachers, students and the wider community through presenting the stories of science and scientists in multimedia format, supported by resources for teaching and learning. To foster ongoing engagement of teachers, as a key target audience, the Hub has a deliberate strategy to support both intentional and incidental learning through website design and through connecting with topical science-related events and news. The embedded social media strategy in particular is a tool that mediates incidental engagement with the Hub content.