Examining Reflective Thinking in Middle School Design Problem Solving in a Maker Environment

• In Event: 72.050 - Poster Session 17
  In Poster Session: 72.050-4 - Instructional Technology SIG Poster Session 1

Abstract

Reflective thinking is a critical component in design problem solving. Despite this, few examples examining the role of reflective thinking in design problem solving have been reported in middle school settings, particularly those with an infusion of maker and other fabrication technologies. In this study, we used survey, video, and interview data to inform a deeper understanding of middle school students’ reflective thinking practices during design problem solving. Results revealed four primary findings: (1) Students employed varied reflective thinking approaches during problem solving; (2) Students primarily relied on the teacher and the Internet for support; (3) Students did not reach global or cultural levels of reflective thinking; and (4) Students provided inconsistent attributions to their support and practices.

Authors

• Michael Karlin, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Haesol Bae, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Manal Suliman Alsaif, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Merve Basdogan, Indiana University

• Thomas Edelberg, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Hamid Nadiruzzaman, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Annisa Sari, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Meina Zhu, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Thomas Brush, Indiana University

• Krista D. Glazewski, Indiana University