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Innovating Middle Grades Curriculum and Pedagogy: Inquiry, Literacy, and STEM Integration
Sat, April 11, 9:45 to 11:15am PDT (9:45 to 11:15am PDT), JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE, Floor: Gold Level, Gold 3Session Type: Roundtable Session
Abstract
This session explores innovative approaches to middle grades curriculum and instruction that inspire inquiry, creativity, and disciplinary engagement. Presenters examine new frameworks for English Language Arts, science, and STEM teaching that connect theory to transformative classroom practice. Studies include an ontological examination of participatory ELA curriculum, a quasi-experimental study on STEM interest development through the iBEARS intervention, an investigation of teachers’ pedagogical content knowledge of the nature of science, and a study of young adolescents’ inquiry through virtual reality. Together, these projects highlight how purposeful design, authentic experiences, and reflective pedagogy can deepen learning and promote curiosity among diverse middle level learners.
Sub Unit
Chair
Papers
Advancing STEM Interest Development: A Quasi-Experimental Study of the iBEARS Intervention - Morgan R. Castillo, Baylor University; Liesel Lutz, Baylor University; Maryann R. Hebda; Kailah Hall, Baylor University; Katherine McIntosh, Baylor University; Tracey N. Sulak, Baylor University
Participatory Prismatic Evaluation: An Ontological Examination of Middle Grades English Language Arts Curriculum - Kathleen M. Brinegar, University of Vermont; Cee Carter, University of Vermont
Understanding Middle School Teachers’ Content Knowledge and Pedagogical Content Knowledge of the Nature of Science - Austin Wilson, Georgia College & State University; Rui Kang, Georgia College & State University
World of Wonder: Young Adolescent Inquiry Through Virtual Reality and Supported Research Opportunities - Lindsay E. Persohn, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee; Lucy Monette, University of South Florida; Leah Burger, University of South Florida; Cheryl R. Ellerbrock, University of South Florida