Rooted In Place: Using Place-Based Soil Data to Engage Diverse Learners in Data Science

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 3:45pm
  In Poster Session: Making Sense of Complexity in Science Education

Abstract

The ability to analyze, interpret, and draw insights from data is quickly becoming a necessary skill for success across multiple disciplines and careers. However, people struggle to make meaning from data, and traditional data-science curriculum falls short of emphasizing its relevance to underrepresented students. To create opportunities for meaningful applications of data-science for diverse students, we developed and implemented an online learning module focused on engaging N=298 undergraduate students at an HSI in an analysis of place-based soil data. Using a pretest-posttest study design, we found that student’s perceptions of data-science relevance and microbiology knowledge improved. We also inductively coded qualitative survey responses and used automated text analysis to explore how students framed “relevance” and how perceptions changed.

Authors

• Ian Thacker, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Rebecca Schroeder, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Sara Shields-Menard, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Mariah Hopkins, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Sandrina Ramirez, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Corina Lopez, University of Texas - San Antonio

• Tanvir Alam, University of Texas - San Antonio