Elementary Student Perceptions and Dispositions Toward the Field of Engineering in STEM Classroom Practices

• In Event: 28.081 - Science Teaching and Learning SIG Paper Session: Change

Abstract

This ongoing three year study sought to understand: (1) In what ways do sixth graders perceive engineering and what engineers do?; (2) What dispositions do sixth graders hold towards engineering as a STEM profession pre and post engagement in engineering modules?; and (3) What impact does engaging sixth graders in engineering modules have on their content achievement in science? Participants included 63 sixth grade elementary students. Data included pre and post surveys, focus group interviews and field observations. Analysis demonstrated positive dispositions towards and better understanding of engineering, but also showed limits on distinctions between engineering and other STEM based fields, accuracy of identifying multidisciplinary connections learned in school and varied interest in viewing engineering as a possible career.

Author

• Issam Hafez Abi-el-Mona, Rowan University