Exploring the Impact of Motivation and Behaviors on Computer-Based Scientific Problem Solving (Poster 11)

• In Event: Division D Graduate Student Committee In-Progress Research Gala Poster Session

Abstract

This study examined the influence of motivation and behaviors on sixth-grade Chinese students' performance in computer-based science tasks. A sample of 591 students completed an interactive task, revealing that students with higher success expectancy performed better. Logfile analysis highlighted that action count and response time positively affected performance, whereas repeated actions and frequent interventions had negative impacts. Students who engaged in controlled experiments and expanded their search scope excelled in problem-solving. These findings can inform the development of assessments for middle school students' scientific problem-solving skills.

Authors

• Siqi Shen, Vanderbilt University

• Shuai Wang, Shanghai Jiao Tong University

• Maohua Wang, Shanghai Municipal Education Commission

• Shuo Feng, Shanghai Jiao Tong University