Acknowledgements

Preface

Abstract

Reference

Chapter 1: What Are Science and Technology?

Abstract

The importance of science and technology

Scientific literacy and the public understanding of science

Finding a meaning for scientific literacy

What does it mean to be literate in science and technology?

Where does STEM fit?

What science and technology do people need to know?

Where can adults learn about science and technology and how can we help them?

References

Chapter 2: How Do Adults Learn Science and Technology?

Abstract

To what extent do adults learn science and technology?

Models of learning

Models underlying a classical view of pedagogy

Constructivism

Andragogy

Heutagogy

The main elements of the self-directed learning of science and technology

Theories of motivation and self-determination

Individual engagement with science and technology

References

Chapter 3: Learning to Deal with Medical Issues

Abstract

Seeking solutions to health problems

Ana's story: First pregnancy

Penny's story: An "invisible disability"

Mary's story: A lifelong challenge

Commentary on the three case stories

References

Chapter 4: Pursuing Personal Interests -- Learning through Hobbies

Abstract

Pursuing a life-long hobby

Richard's Story: Building a Logie Baird televisor

Michael's Story: Creating Complex Jewellery

Pursuing Environmental Interests

Tina's Story: Surprise encounter with a bumblebee

Paulette's Story: Opaque Aquifers and Other Matters

Commentary on the four case stories

References

Chapter 5: Learning to Help Others

Abstract

Helping children

Paul's story: pop-up dinosaurs

Liz's story: Science for Mothers

The explainers

Tiki's story: Interpreting plants

Kristen's story: In the galleries

Warren's story: A science of place

Commentary on the five case stories

References

Chapter 6: Learning for Work

Abstract

Learning in and for the workplace

Hugh's story: An experience of life-long learning

Ketan's story: Understanding controversy

Keith's story: Life is a garden

Commentary on the three case stories

References

Chapter 7: Learning Through a Diversity of Approaches: The Case of the Moon Diary

Abstract

Introduction

The influence of learning styles and multiple intelligences

Free pathways and motivation

The Moon Diary assignment

Initial responses: from confusion to elation

Choosing the theme

Reflections

References

Chapter 8: Resources for Self-Directed Learning

Abstract

How self-directed learners use resources

Media resources

Printed resources

Electronic mass media

The Internet and social media

Quality of information portrayed by mass media

People as resources -- experts, friends, peers and colleagues

Experts in the field

Friends, peers, and colleagues

Course-taking and teachers

Internet e-learning platforms

Self-directed learning at education institutions

Personal resources

References

Chapter 9: Learning from New Media

Abstract

Characteristics of new media

Learning via the Internet: The digital divide

Motivation to search the Internet

Checking facts

Focused searching

Exploration and discovery

Learning about science through new media: Social networks

Hazards of new media

Judging a credible source

Helping people to learn from the Internet

References

Chapter 10: Supporting Self-directed Learning in Science and Technology

Abstract

Introduction

Essential skills for effective self-directed learning

Prerequisite personal resources for self-directed learners

Motivation toward the chosen task

Active engagement in learning

Self-efficacy as a learner

Partnerships for learning

Mentoring relationships

Varieties of mentorship

Learning relationships in our case stories

Learning relationships and online media

How to support self-directed learners

Likely supporters of self-directed learners

Educators providing formal learning experiences

Specialists and community liaison people

Staff in the educational sections of cultural organisations

Effective communication

References

Chapter 11: Advancing the Cause of Adult Literacy in Science and Technology

Abstract

Science in the school curriculum

Dealing with science and technology in everyday life

Technology in the school curriculum

The curricular relevance of STEM and STEAM

The relevance of an integrated curriculum

Developing literacy in science and technology

Increasing "Science Capital"

Providing knowledge and skills to facilitate universal scientific literacy

Achieving the goals of lifelong learning in science and technology

References