Collaborative tool and training design for social action

ABSTRACT Informal science education institutions (ISEIs) often work in isolation, or even in competition, with one another. However, addressing large social issues becomes more tractable when ISEIs are able to pool ideas, perspectives, and resources. Collaboration across ISEIs has high potential for developing exhibitions, programming, and professional development opportunities that effectively address social issues in a variety of contexts. The ISEI field promotes institutional collaboration, but few studies exist that identify the mechanisms enabling collaboration and making collaborative initiatives successful. The visualizing change project demonstrates the value of a collaborative model for ISEIs working toward public education on a critical social-environmental issue. We further outline strategies for developing this structure at the outset of collaborative initiatives and adhering to it as those projects unfold.