Research Fellow in Playful Learning
SciPlay at the New York Hall of Science
SciPlay, the Sara Lee Schupf Family Center for Play, Science, and Technology
Learning, located at the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI), is searching for a
research fellow for a leadership role in a new National Science Foundation-
funded project in the Transforming STEM Learning program, “SciGames:
A Technology-enhanced Model for Bridging Informal and Formal Science
Learning.” This project focuses on supporting middle school physics learning
through students playing technology-enhanced playground games and digital
apps paired to each game. This project is in collaboration with Learning Games
Network, New York University, Tufts University, New York City Department of
Parks and Recreation, and New York City Department of Education.
Position Responsibilities:
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Coordinate the design of technology-enhanced playground games and
their paired digital apps
Lead the planning and execution of research studies on playful learning
Collect data including observations, prompted verbalization, tests, and
surveys
Analyze data using mixed methods
Write up findings to inform redesign and for summative evaluation
purposes
Present findings at national meetings
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Requirements:
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Design-based research experience designing science curricula and/or
science learning environments
Education research experience conducting trials and analyzing data using
mixed methods
Experience analyzing observational data using a rubric
Proficiency with statistical software such as SAS, SPSS, or STATA
Excellent written and oral communication skills
Ability to work well with a team from a diversity of disciplines
Ideal candidates have (or will soon complete) a Ph.D. in the learning
sciences, science education, psychology, museum studies, or related field.
Candidates with a Master’s degree in one of the above areas or in a STEM
discipline with significant experience conducting educational research are
also encouraged to apply.
Prior experience in informal science learning is a plus.
Prior experience teaching science is a plus.
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Salary is commensurate with qualifications: $50,000 – $60,000 with full
benefits. The position is full-time for a maximum of two years, starting
September 2011.
Applicants should contact Dr. David Kanter, Director, SciPlay, c/o Ayesha Ware
(aware@nysci.org; 718-699-0005 x348). To apply, please email a one-page cover
letter and a separate c.v. Review of applications will begin immediately. The
New York Hall of Science is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action employer.
Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States. Employment
Eligibility verification required upon hire.
SciPlay is a national center that aims to advance our understanding of how to
promote science learning through play. SciPlay pursues a program of design-
based research, designing playful learning environments and studying the impact
of such environments in NYSCI’s natural laboratory to educe design principles
for playful science learning. Ultimately, SciPlay applies its findings to develop
and disseminate new approaches, to bridge informal and formal science learning
environments to build a seamless national infrastructure for lifelong science
learning.
