Early Intervention and Access to STEM and Computer Science: What Difference Does It Make?

• In Event: Evaluation of STEM Technology Programs

Abstract

Developing elementary students’ attitudes and learning experiences in STEM and CS is critical as classrooms prepare students for the 21st century. Research has suggested the need for young students to have developmentally appropriate experiences in STEM with integrated computer science (CS) opportunities. The paper investigated 226 elementary students’ perceptions about STEM, their career choices, and effects from a pre to post-test intervention program that provided coding lessons over a three-month period. Findings included positive changes from pre to post-test surveys that measured students’ attitudes in STEM as well as benefits of early exposure in CS that influenced elementary students’ perceptions and aspirations to pursue career or professional paths related to STEM and CS.

Author

• Yune Kim Tran, Providence College