ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the immersive environments, interactive kiosks, and dioramas, labels and the written word remain the core, fundamental element of every science-based exhibition. For every exhibition, one initial requirement is to establish the types of labels and their classification that will be developed for the exhibition. There are two primary classes of labels: non interpretive and interpretive. Serrell identifies a hierarchical system composed of four types of interpretive labels: title labels, introductory or orientation labels, section or group labels, and captions. Serrell's Group Labels be further divided into a tiered hierarchy consisting offrom highest ranking to lowest area introductions, theme labels, and focus labels. While most non interpretive labels are not part of an exhibition's storyline, identification labels are a critical piece of the larger narrative. A final consideration is the use of bilingual labels. One of the greatest myths concerning science-based exhibitions and science education in generalis the need to 'dumb down' the content.
