Education Philosophy

The mission of the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum is to educate our students and patrons concerning the intricate relationships and processes indicative of biological systems. Using a combination of in-house and outreach programs, we are committed to teaching children and adults alike about the natural world and what they can do to conserve it. The Museum's education philosophy embodies these purposes.

Bean Life Science Museum Education Philosophy

The M.L. Bean Life Science Museum serves as a unique venue for inviting the public to explore and contemplate intricate biological relationships and processes. To this end, we are committed to:

1. Providing significant opportunities for our students and patrons to develop an accurate understanding and appreciation of the natural world.  
2. Developing meaningful educational programs for BYU students, the community, public and private schools, scout groups, and families.
3. Coordinating and administering effective outreach and in-house programs and activities based on the Utah State Office of Education core science curriculum standards.
4. Nurturing curiosity and respect for the beauty and life-sustaining functions of the natural world.

Museum Education Enhancement Partnership

EDUCATION POLICIES

LIVE ANIMAL SHOWS
In-house

• Private shows may be scheduled during regular operating hours beginning at 15 minutes after the hour (10:15, 11:15 etc.).
• Call (801) 422-5052 at least one week in advance.
• Live animal shows are free of charge. Teachers or other adult supervisors are requested to fill out a feedback form after viewing a show.

Outreach

• If a class is unable to make a field trip to the Museum, outreach shows can be scheduled. In an outreach show, a staff member from the Museum will travel to the school and present one of the Museum's seven live animal shows.
• Outreach shows must be scheduled two weeks in advance.
• The cost for an outreach show is $35 for schools within Utah County and $55 for those outside the county.

Scheduling

• To schedule a show, call (801) 422-5052 with the following information:
  • which show is desired
  • number of people attending
  • ages of the group
  • Name
  • Address/directions
  • Telephone
  • Email
  • 3-4 possible dates and times

• After the show is scheduled, a confirmation letter will be sent by email.
• Shows may not be scheduled on Thursdays at 11 AM. During holidays please check the Museum website for adjusted hours.
• Due to staffing issues, outreach shows may not be scheduled during the University final exam week.

Additional information

• There is a limit of 200 students per group.
• Parking is available for busses in the Marriott Center parking lot (north of the Museum). Before parking, busses may drop off students in front of the Museum (south side).
• Food is not allowed inside the Museum - the Museum's collections are extremely vulnerable to certain kinds of pests. These pests thrive on small pieces of food; therefore, in order to protect our remarkable collections we ask that our patrons do not bring any food into the Museum.

SATURDAY SAFARI
Classes for kids ages 5-12 involving animal classes, crafts and games! Classes are offered from 9:30 am to 12pm. Cost is $12.00 per class per child.
Registration Information:

1. Classes begin at 9:30 a.m. and end at 12:00 p.m. on Saturdays at the Museum. No lunch is provided.
2. A release form and registration form must be signed by a parent/ guardian at time of registration.
3. There is an $12.00 fee per class per student to be paid one week before the class to hold your child's slot. If you have two children, the second is $10.00.
4. You must register one week prior to the class. Due to the preparation required, we do not accept registration the day of the class.
5. We are no longer able to offer refunds. However, if notified in advance of your child's absence we can offer credit toward a future Safari.
6. Return the attached form with payment to the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum.

Questions? 422-5051.
 

WILDLIFE ADVENTURES
Kids ages 6-12 can spend their Tuesday and Thursdays on a Wildlife Adventure! Tuesday sessions will be held in the museum from 10 am – 12 pm while Thursday will involve a field trip experience from 12 pm – 4 pm (approximately). Cost is $35 per child.

EXHIBITS TOURThe Bean Life Science Museum now offers a tour of the exhibits for small groups. The tour lasts 30-45 minutes and is designed for groups no larger than 15 people.
Tours will start at 15 minutes after the hour and can be scheduled by calling 422-5052. Please call at least one week in advance.