Spark-Challenge: A Theory-Based Intervention Model to Support Intrinsic Motivation in STEM

• In Event: 28.092 - Sheraton Roundtable Two - Osgoode Ballroom
  In Roundtable Session: 28.092-2 - Aspects of STEM Engagement

Abstract

This paper describes a theory-driven design of a community STEM learning event and the associated measures of the child participants’ (N=45) interest. The researchers utilized both survey (ICA-3) and observational data to compare children’s self-reported broad-level interest before the event with their domain-specific ‘choice’ behavior during the event. Preliminary descriptive analysis showed that females reported higher interest in social domains compared to boys. General interest in investigative, artistic and social domains was salient in all the children. The analysis also revealed gender differences in the computer and biological science domains with girls favoring the biological domain. Ideas for how this event format can be used to investigate interest development in children are discussed.

Authors

• Eddie Partida, Claremont Graduate University

• Delacy E. Ganley, Claremont Graduate University

• Andrew J. Hughes, California State University - San Bernardino