Apoptosis: the way for science centres to thrive

The concept of apoptosis is suggested to be a useful metaphor for the management of modern science centres. The key idea is that an organisation which is aiming at helping people to learn should itself behave as a learning organism. As an example, the networked Exploratorium is described in its stage of development in 2001. Constant change within a permanent structure is its permanent mode of existence. Benefits and some drawbacks of this approach are discussed.

Keywords: science centres, apoptosis, public understanding of science