Facilitating Middle Schoolers' STEM Identity Development With 3-D Scanning and Printing Technologies Used by Paleontologists

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 35
  In Roundtable Session: Technology and K–12 Learning Environments

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore how engagement in integrated STEM activities that use authentic paleontology-focused practices and 3D scanning and printing technologies used by scientists influence middle-school students’ development of STEM identity. We found that attitudes towards both science and 21st century skills were improved as a result of such integrative and technology-supported activities. Some of these improvements were moderated by gender. While females significantly outperformed males on Science Attitudes Posttest, males exhibited significantly higher interest on the posttest of career interest in Biology and Zoology. Importantly, student interest also improved in Computer Science and Medical Science careers.

Authors

• Pasha Antonenko, University of Florida

• Mayra L. Cordero, P.K. Yonge Developmental Research School

• Claudia Grant

• Wenjing Luo, University of Florida

• Bruce MacFadden, University of Florida

• Victor Perez, University of Florida

• Jeanette Pirlo

• Min-Chuan Tsai, University of Florida

• Sean Moran, University of Florida

• Michael Ziegler, University of Florida

• Tugba Kamali Arslantas, Aksaray University