Explainers
The Exploratorium, San Francisco
Catalyst
”The Explainer program was really my first introduction to the world of science as a possible career.”
“I learned how to interact with the general public, speak in front of groups, break down scientific ideas into manageable and understandable chunks…”
At the Exploratorium in San Francisco, high school Explainers have brought the magic of science and a culture of learning to visitors since the museum’s opening in 1969. As an educational organization, the Exploratorium has been a pioneer and leader in interactive science centers; the Explainers, supported by the Koret Foundation, bring youthful enthusiasm and life to this mission.
Learning and teaching about science, art, and human perception, Explainers serve as the floor staff of the Exploratorium, serving visitors by answering questions about exhibits and programs. In addition, Explainers reap the benefits of a well-structured youth development program. Each semester — a four-month period beginning in the summer, fall, or spring — a new cohort of Explainers is hired, in addition to a few who return from the previous semester, for a total of 100 students per year.
Each group represents a variety of complementary skills in terms of expertise in science, ability to deal with the public, and teaching experience. Explainers learn from each other and from museum staff, developing their interests and skills while gaining self-confidence and overall personal growth. Utilizing young people as its frontline staff with visitors, the Exploratorium effectively reinforces the message that science is accessible.
Four Exploratorium staff members are responsible for the Explainer program design, which combines on-the-job training, hands-on academics, and youth development components.
By providing entry-level jobs that give young people an introduction to a variety of career paths, the museum helps Explainers to become responsible, self-respecting members of their community.
“The Explainer program was really my first introduction to the world of science as a possible career,” a recent alumnus said. “It was the first time I felt that being interested in science was considered ‘cool,’ and that’s a pretty huge thing for a self-conscious high school student. I learned how to interact with the general public, speak in front of groups, break down scientific ideas into manageable and understandable chunks, and gauge the teachability and interests of my audience. I use all of these skills on a daily basis in my career.”