Brains rule! fun = learning = neuroscience literacy.

Full Abstract

Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions is a project designed to improve neuroscience literacy among children and the general public by applying a model where neuroscience professionals transfer knowledge and enthusiasm about neuroscience through fun, engaging hands-on activities. This educational model draws strength from many national and local partnerships of neuroscience professionals to coordinate expositions across the country in a variety of local communities. Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions uses a flexible science fair-like format to engage children in the process of science and teach about neuroscience concepts, facts, and professions. Neuroscience literacy is important to everyday life and helps individuals better understand themselves, make informed decisions about health and drug use, participate knowledgeably in governmental and social issues, and better understand scientific advancements. In this study, children's ratings of Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions activities were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively. Analysis of the responses revealed that overall the children perceived the learning activities as fun and interesting and believed that they learned something about the brain and nervous system after engaging in the activities. The Brains Rule! Neuroscience Expositions education model can be an effective tool in improving neuroscience literacy for both children and adults.

Author information

Author/s: Zardetto-Smith, Andrea M (AM); Mu, Keli (K); Phelps, Cynthia L (CL); Houtz, Lynne E (LE); Royeen, Charlotte B (CB);

Affiliation: Department of Pharmacy Sciences, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska 68178, USA. amzarsmi(-atsign-)creighton.edu

Grants: R25 DA 12168 (Agency:NIDA NIH HHS) ; R25 DA 13522 (Agency:NIDA NIH HHS)

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Journal: The Neuroscientist : a review journal bringing neurobiology, neurology and psychiatry (Neuroscientist), published in United States. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2002-Oct; vol 8 (issue 5) : pp 396-404

Dates: Created 2002/10/10; Completed 2003/03/04; Revised 2007/11/14;

PMID: 12374424, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

External Links for this article
(including full text providers, if available):

Click Electronic Full-text Provider Links to see options for finding the electronic full text links to this article. Note there may be a subscription or fee required for access to the full text. See our FAQ for information on finding FREE full text articles.

This article may also be located in paper journal collections available in many libraries. Use the Journal and Publication Information above to find the full article.