Learning in Non-School Settings: Assessing the Roles of Zoos in Science Education

This paper conducts a comprehensive review of the existing literature to examine the significance of zoos in cultivating scientific literacy in society. The focus is on revealing how educators can strategically utilize zoos as a valuable resource to stimulate critical thinking about the Nature of Science (NOS) and Socio-Scientific Issues (SSI) within the framework of formal school science curricula. The review encompasses the diverse educational initiatives undertaken by zoos, ranging from interactive exhibits to specialized programs, and explores their potential impact on enhancing student understanding of scientific concepts. Drawing on the findings, this paper provides recommendations for educators seeking to integrate zoo experiences into their teaching methodologies, emphasizing the potential for zoos to serve as dynamic platforms for fostering a more profound engagement with science. By bridging the gap between informal and formal learning environments, this research aims to contribute practical insights that empower educators in leveraging zoos to inspire critical thinking and scientific literacy in the broader community.