A Cross-Case Study: Comparing the Role of Science Centers in Advancing Scientific Knowledge in Turkey and Denmark

This study aimed to investigate the role of science centers in advancing scientific knowledge. To do so, two heads of science centers were selected to perform interviews, one of whom had previously worked as a head of science center in Denmark and the other of whom had previously worked as a head of science center in Turkey. The study's approach was modified as qualitative method, and the study can be thought of as a case study in this context. As a data collection tool, a semi-structured interview form was used. It was used to find out what the participants thought about the role of science centers in advancing scientific knowledge. Participants emphasize the importance of science centers in achieving effective science communication. This research is expected to guide future studies on the advancement of the scientific knowledge.

Science centers may be thought of as informal learning centers that allow access to their visitors (students, parents, teachers etc.) According to Persson (2000), a science center is any institution providing access to the public for the aim of popularizing science and using interactive exhibition, involving visitor in active experimentation. They target to explain science and technology to society. According to Gilbert (2001), interactive science and technology centers are recognized as potential educational resources since visitors can be made aware of their interests.
Zimmerman, Reeve and Bell (2009), science centers are a type of museum that creates opportunities for families to engage with science through hands-on activities, interactive exhibits, and real experience with scientific phenomena. Şentürk (2015), defined science centers are one of the informal environments that promote science learning and they are still underutilised by formal schools within the context of science education.
Beside science centers, there are more teaching environments such as science museums, planateriums and zoos. Falk and Storksdieck (2005) İdin Vol. 7, No. 1, 2021, p. 38-54 40 For all these factors it can be said that they are efficient on science center visitors' understanding of science. Bandelli, Konijn and Willems (2009)

Data analysis
Interviews were conducted with partipants both face to face and via web.
Accordingly, the researcher and academicians, expert in their field revealed raw data of the interviews. The field specialists and researchers separated the data into codes first and then, the data obtained from the codes was collected in themes. Two assessment and evaluation specialists to provide validity and reliability Two experts examined the interview data and themes and codes were formed as independent from each other. The "compatibility percentage" formula was used to determine the reliability of the codes and themes obtained from the interview forms by the two experts (Miles and Huberman, 1994;Miles, Huberman and Saldana, 2014 (Miles and Huberman, 1994;Patton 2002).

Ethical issues
Participants were informed about the study in terms of its content, the reason, and period of study, what type of data would be obtained and where they will be used with that purpose was given and which applications would be applied during the study. Participants were also provided to participate in the study voluntarily. Their name and personal information were not given in the study.
Instead, they were just coded as P1 and P2. Within this context, they were given a "Volunteer Participation Form".

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section is seen accompanying questions of the study.

Results of the first question
What do you think about science centers' role within the scope of activities that are carried out in science centers?
Two participants answered this question. Their answers are given in Table 1.   To design, implement and solve problems by practising.

Results of the fourth Question
Do you think science centers provide sustainability of science communication? If yes, how? Can you explain your thoughts?
Their answers are given in Table 4.

Results of the fifth question
What can be done to promote science centers' role in advancing scientific knowledge?.
Their answers are given in Table 5. It can be seen in Table 5   Much more research should be done.
To really clarify impact of a science center to its many audiences Government and communities should be persuaded.
To accept stronger support for investments and the operation of the science centers.

Science communication trainings
They can be provided to science centers. infrastructure strengthening supports They can be provided to science centers. package programs They can be offered to science centers. to get more benefit from universities Their current scientific studies. Academic advisory boards It can be established in science centers.
A part of the answer of P1 to this question is given below to be able to understand his codes and themes better.
Much more research should be conducted to really clarify to impact of a science center to its many audiences (laymen, school pupils, teachers, media, universities, businesses etc).
A part of the answer of P2 to this question is given below to be able to understand his codes and themes better.