Amazeum

I think I am really just more actively thinking about failure and how my students and my campers might see it. With this project, it got me thinking more of when I'm planning something, how will I get them unstuck while it's happening in this particular project? Like working through my notes as I write the guide for a project or an activity, thinking in that moment, how are some ways that they might fail at this and how can I help them while that's happening? So preparing myself before I even get to the kids. (Year 2 Informal Educator)

OUR DEFINITION OF FAILURE: The act of noticing a moment of unreached potential that serves as a catalyst or deterrent for learning. 

A workshop with groups of adult educators building structures out of chenille stems

FiM Professional Development Cycle

Follow along with the Amazeum's PD Cycle by clicking on the slideshow below. Many of their resources can be found throughout the Resources page.

PD Cycle
An empty workshop with rolling tables, chairs, and tools in a large open room.

Data Collection Programs

Amazeum conducted their PD Cycle with four different programs. You can check out more information by clicking on the google doc below.

Data Collection Programs
Chart paper with hand written notes and post-its with lessons learned.

Lessons Learned

What have they learned? In doing another round of the PD cycle, what would the Amazeum keep, tweak, and toss? Check out the slide below.

Lessons Learned

I feel like I'm better able to identify those failure moments and then afterwards reflect on them to grow so that I can better prepare myself if they arise in the future. (Year 1 Informal Educator)

ABOUT US

The Scott Family Amazeum is a hands-on, interactive museum in Northwest Arkansas that creates a fun environment where risk taking, imagining, problem solving, discovery, collaboration, and exploration bring children and adults together to learn and grow.

The mission of the Amazeum is: “To engage the imagination of children and their families through interactive exhibits, programs, and resources while creating an excitement for lifelong learning and the enrichment of lives.”

Through experiences with the Amazeum individuals and the community are engaged in building relationships and developing identities as creative, curious, and innovative shapers for the region. Learning at the Amazeum is an active, playful exploration that inspires curiosity. It is rooted in inquiry-based discovery and involves an element of risk. Hands-on learning opportunities allow guests to exercise critical thinking in the context of play.