History

The Natural Sciences Museum was founded at CSULB in 1980. Housed in the Peterson Hall Science Complex, the museum was renamed The Science Learning Center (SLC) in 1990. The SLC was developed with the goal of stimulating natural curiosity in science through a variety of hands-on exhibits and activities. The concepts of science are most easily understood by direct physical involvement and personal discovery. The exhibits compliment the sciences curriculum in the K-12 grade levels.

The Mobile Science Museum (MSM) began its school visitations in October of 1980. A large (27 ft.) motor home was converted into a mobile hands-on laboratory that brings to its guests a broad array of interactive exhibits designed to heighten people's enthusiasm for, and understanding of the natural sciences.

Since its inception, the MSM has brought its exhibits to well over 400,000 enthusiastic guests of all ages throughout Los Angeles and Orange Counties. The MSM can also be found at the annual CSULB Homecoming, the annual Kaleidoscope open house festival, and at other public venues. In 1988, the MSM received a Science Teaching Recognition Award from the National Science Teacher's Association and the American Gas Association for its creative and innovative approach to science education. The MSM has been the subject of numerous articles written in educational journals.

The MSM has visited the junior high schools in Long Beach Unified School District on a rotating basis with support from the CSULB Alumni Association and the Industry Education Council of Long Beach. The MSM visits to local schools are also underwritten by private sector contributions. This partnership between the University, industry and local schools has proven to be a winning and rewarding project for all.