Adolescent Problem Posing: What Problems Do Middle School Students Wish to Solve?

• In Event: Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: Problem-Based Education SIG Roundtable Session: Problem-Based Learning and STEM Education

Abstract

Problem posing, as opposed to problem solving approaches where the problem is provided, offers students the opportunity to generate ideas that are of student interest, while engaging in discussions that support the development of academic language and critical thinking skills. In this study, we used data generated from a constructed response assessment with a combined focus on science inquiry practices and the development of academic language skills conducted with middle school students whose teachers engaged in professional learning to develop teaching practices to better support the science learning of their English learners. Implications for educators and researchers committed to dynamic teaching of critical thinking skills in the context of the Next Generation Science Standards are discussed.

Authors

• Rouhollah Aghasaleh, University of Georgia - Athens

• Cory A. Buxton, University of Georgia - Athens

• Martha A. Allexsaht-Snider, University of Georgia

• Amanda M Latimer, University of Georgia - Athens

• Christina Hylton, University of Georgia - Athens

• Yu Xia