# Learning Theory in Museums: Investigating the role of serendipity in public engagement and learning of STEM

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · American Museum Natural History (NY) · $1,053,769

## Abstract

Serendipity, or insight coupled with chance, has been identified as an essential element of scientific discovery and played a key role in the work of countless scholars and researchers. For instance, examples of serendipitous discoveries include penicillin, radioactivity, and the adhesive for Post-it Notes. Yet serendipitous moments are neither rare nor solely the domain of magnificent discoveries; they happen regularly to all. This project investigates how unplanned yet meaningful learning experiences-termed serendipitous moments-can spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and encourage participation in informal science learning environments like museums. Serendipitous learning occurs when a learner encounters an insight by chance while having the background to recognize and act on the discovery. These moments often arise when visitors encounter something unexpected that connects with their prior knowledge and, when they feel a sense of agency, leads to insights that encourage further exploration. While research on serendipity has burgeoned in the last two decades in the context of library and information sciences and scientific research, its role in supporting learning in education contexts is only beginning. By examining when, how, and for whom serendipitous moments occur, this research aims to further understand this phenomenon in informal learning spaces like museums. The project will contribute to national efforts to increase public access to and participation in STEM.


## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2516863
- **Awardee organization:** American Museum Natural History (NY)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** MNJDKB4FXLM6
- **PI:** Karen Hammerness
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** STEM Learning & Learning Environments
- **Estimated total:** $1,053,769
- **Funds obligated:** $1,053,769
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/15/2025 → 08/31/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2516863

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2516863, Learning Theory in Museums: Investigating the role of serendipity in public engagement and learning of STEM. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2516863. Licensed CC0.

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