Fostering Engineering Design Thinking Through Literacy Instruction for Elementary Students

• In Event: 31.063 - The Design of Teacher Tools, Evaluative Tools, and Learning Environments That Promote Motivation and Design Thinking

Abstract

The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the ways in which literacy instruction on engineering texts fostered engineering design thinking among 57 upper elementary students. A constant comparative analysis indicated that the application of comprehension strategies and writing processes simultaneously reinforced the application of engineering design processes. The authors conclude that teachers can use explicit literacy instruction to enhance engineering design thinking.

Authors

• Amy Alexandra Wilson, Utah State University

• Stacie Gregory, Utah State University