ERIC Number: EJ1214912
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019-Apr
Pages: 38
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0731-9258
EISSN: N/A
Piloting Innovative Learning Experiences: Outcomes of Digital Fabrication Activities across Five Classrooms
Alexander, Curby; Knezek, Gerald; Christensen, Rhonda; Tyler-Wood, Tandra
Journal of Computers in Mathematics and Science Teaching, v38 n2 p115-152 Apr 2019
Declining academic achievement across U.S. schools, particularly in mathematics and science, has prompted several initiatives to increase the quality of teaching in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The National Science Foundation initiated the Innovative Technology Experiences for Students and Teachers (ITEST) program in order to develop new instructional methods that promote deep engagement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This study examines, based on research funded by ITEST, outcomes from five classroom-based digital fabrication implementations, all part of the same study, and particularly, within each classroom the effect on student attitudes toward STEM subjects and careers. The study employed a quantitative design involving fourth- and fifth-grade students from five classrooms in two different schools, with each classroom focused on one or more of the following activities: wind-generated electricity, simple machines, 3-dimensional puzzles, or solar-powered satellites. Data were collected using items from the National Assessment of Academic Progress (NAEP) and Trends in International Mathematics Science Study (TIMSS) at the beginning and end of the school year. The findings provide evidence of positive changes in attitudes toward STEM subjects and careers across multiple classrooms. Applications of these findings and directions for future studies are discussed.
Descriptors: Educational Technology, Technology Uses in Education, STEM Education, Teaching Methods, Grade 4, Grade 5, Elementary School Students, Learning Activities, Experiential Learning, Student Attitudes, Self Efficacy, Design
Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education. P.O. Box 719, Waynesville, NC 28786. Tel: 828-246-9558; Fax: 828-246-9557; e-mail: info@aace.org; Web site: http://www.aace.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Elementary Education; Grade 4; Intermediate Grades; Grade 5
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: National Assessment of Educational Progress; Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A