Measuring Interest and Emotion in a Fourth-Grade STEM Unit

• In Event: 75.017 - Emotions and Their Role in STEM Learning

Abstract

Promoting interest and positive emotions in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) concepts is a goal of many educators. However, measuring these constructs with young learners is challenging. In the present investigation, we developed and tested two measures, one on interest, one on emotion, to assess the impact of a STEM intervention designed to promote engagement and positive affect. Over 200 4th grade students from a diverse urban area in California responded to these surveys pre and post intervention. Results showed significant increases in knowledge, interest, and positive emotions compared to a control group. Our results suggest the measures show promise for use in large-scale administrations where they can serve a role in triangulating qualitative interviews and observations.

Authors

• Robert William Danielson, University of Southern California

• Gale M. Sinatra, University of Southern California

• Viviane Seyranian, University of Southern California

• Ananya Mukhopadhyay, University of Southern California

• Benjamin C. Heddy, University of Oklahoma

• Julie A. Marsh, University of Southern California

• Morgan S. Polikoff, University of Southern California

• Nan Zhou, University of Southern California

• Kristene Hossepian, University of Southern California