Discovering Data Science: Elementary Students' Experiences and Perspectives

• In Event: Friday Roundtable Session 4:55 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Integrating Computing Education and Professional Development (Table 28)

Abstract

This study examined the experiences and perspectives of elementary students participating in a data science project, using a connected learning framework. The research involved 202 students engaged in an 8-to-10-day data science unit co-developed by their teachers and our research team. Through focus groups, observations, and video recordings, we explored how students experienced data science, identified their preferences, and encountered challenges. The findings revealed students' enthusiasm for creating graphs, conducting research, and telling data stories, while also expressing a desire for more hands-on activities and support in using data science tools. Understanding students' perspectives is crucial for shaping data science education to better align with their interests and needs, fostering a more engaged and meaningful learning experience within this domain.

Authors

• Ibrahim Oluwajoba Adisa, Stanford University

• Dara Abimbade, Clemson University

• Danielle C. Herro, Clemson University

• Golnaz Arastoopour Irgens, Vanderbilt University