From theory to action: The collective adventure of science recreation clubs

Abstract

Science recreation, as a means of science outreach, has gained a lot of momentum over the last decades. Its greatest strength arises from the interactive essence that fosters rewarding experiences for the participants. However, this modality has lacked formal analysis to establish its fundamental characteristics and opportunities for advancement. The present work integrates the experience of more than 30 years in the development of science recreation activities with important analytical contributions, of the last years, to build a cutting-edge perspective of the field. To go further, it is articulated with the importance of the systematic work of clubs that achieve a deeper impact on the public. All this is rounded off addressing the case of the Children's Science Club, in Zacatecas, Mexico, to share learning and results of three decades of experience.