Science Teachers' Computer Simulation Use to Support Engineering Design

• In Event: New Developments in Learning Technologies

Abstract

This study explored the extent elementary and secondary participants in a state-wide PD program used computer simulations to support students in engineering design tasks. Three cohorts of participants (332 elementary, 102 secondary) during 2012-2015 contributed to the data corpus. Data included Quarterly Lesson Reports and videotaped lessons. There were no documented instances of computer simulation use to support engineering design (ED) tasks among secondary participants. Thirty-four (10.2%) of elementary participants used a computer simulation within, or prior to an ED context to help students develop conceptual understanding or science skills that could be applied to improve their ED products. All ED tasks involved physical science. Results suggest recommendations for future teacher professional development to help integrate engineering into science classrooms.

Authors

• Amanda L. Gonczi, University of Virginia

• Jennifer L. Chiu, University of Virginia

• Jennifer L. Maeng, University of Virginia