In this course, students develop an evaluation plan and assessment tools in order to evaluate an informal learning (or free-choice learning) setting/program/exhibition/experience. The first step is to create a logic model about that site/program/exhibition/experience. Then students will use a portion of their logic model to develop and apply their evaluation plan and instruments/tools/protocols as a pilot at the informal learning setting/program/exhibition/experience of their choice. As a result, students will understand and reflect upon best practices in informal learning assessment and evaluation. 

Erin Hicks is a museum professional with a love of lifelong informal learning - especially the kind of learning that takes place in museums! With a master's degree in museum studies from SUNY Buffalo State in Buffalo, NY, she comes from an arts and humanities educational background. Her professional experiences span the interdisciplinary museum areas of visitor experience and education, object-based research and interpretation, and museum planning and exhibit design. Some of her favorite ways of engaging in informal learning include experimenting with watercolor painting, listening to birds, browsing library shelves, and camping in state parks.

Questions about the certificate or course can be addressed to: Chelsey Lynne, Manager of Professional Development, Oregon State University, chelsey.lynne@oregonstate.edu