“I Want to Change the World”: Young Learners Explore Biomedical Engineering Through Hands-On Engineering Design Activities

• In Event: Motivation and Identity in Engineering Education: Pathways from Childhood to University

Abstract

This study examines how 10 elementary students (ages 8–11) engaged in a design-based learning activity to explore the role of biomedical engineers. Students constructed spine models, designed prosthetic discs, and tested materials via compression and bending tasks. Pre- and post-surveys showed increased understanding of what biomedical engineers do (from 10% to 90%) and greater interest in engineering as a career (from 30% to 60%). Drawing on constructionist and embodied learning theories, our video analysis, using reflexive thematic analysis, revealed three themes: the development of an engineering mindset, embodied learning, and social collaboration. The findings suggest that constructionist and embodied learning approaches support the development of engineering mindsets and strengthen engineering interests in young learners.

Authors

• Zahra Baradaran Shoraka, University of Iowa

• Kay Ellen Ramey, University of Iowa