Education Commons^™

The Privilege Of Low Pay: Informal Educators’ Perspectives On Workforce Equity And Diversity, K. Ren Rende, K. Fromson, M. G. Jones, M. Ennes

Teacher Education Faculty Publications

Despite attempts to diversify the informal science education workforce, institutions like museums, zoos, and aquariums continue to be places of privilege where few can afford to make education a life-long career. This exploratory study examined informal science educators’ perspectives on workforce equity, diversity, and professionalization. Through a nationwide survey and selective interviews, educators (n = 132) were asked about their career motivations and personal and professional challenges faced before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results show that 59% of informal science educators surveyed were considering academic or career changes, citing workplace practices and cultures that perpetuate overwork and underpay …