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Abstract
Children using robotics for engineering, science, technology, and mathematics (CREST-M) is an ongoing curriculum creation and evaluation project developing math-focused science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum units that incorporate storytelling with math and are designed to be engaging for students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields and to be appropriate for all ability levels including the gifted. This mixed-methods study evaluated one CREST-M unit, The Tale of the Monarchs, aligned to the Common Core State Standards: Mathematics (CCSS-M) for fourth- and fifth-grade fractions while incorporating all aspects of STEM. The unit includes an engineering design loop to help students create and program robots using LEGO WeDo 2.0. Students also use the scientific method in a problem-based learning (PBL) investigation in which they design and conduct experiments. The unit features a comprehensive storyline in which diverse characters solve real-world problems using STEM skills. The curriculum was evaluated through a CCSS-M aligned pre- and post-assessment of students’ understanding of fractions, the Cognitive Abilities Test Screening Form 7 (CogAT 7), and the Draw-a-Scientist pre- and post-assessment. The curriculum led to significant and meaningful gains in math achievement (Cohen’s d = 0.72) consistent for students at multiple ability levels (including high ability) and children from groups traditionally represented in STEM fields as well as those traditionally underrepresented (across gender, race, and socioeconomic status). In addition, the mental models of the career of a scientist that students articulated before the program were markedly more complex and less stereotypical following the program, indicating increased understanding of the career of a scientist.
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Notes on contributors
Steve V. Coxon
Steve V. Coxon, PhD, is Associate Professor of Gifted Education and Executive Director of the Center for Access and Achievement (CA2) at Maryville University. CA2 focuses on partnerships with high-need schools and nonprofits to prepare precollegiate students for college and the careers of the future through STEM education. Steve conducts research on developing STEM talents, including mathematics, creativity, and spatial ability. He is author of more than 50 publications, including the book Serving Visual–Spatial Learners, and serves as book review editor for Roeper Review. E-mail: [email protected]
Rebecca L. Dohrman
Dr. Rebecca L. Dohrman is an associate professor of communication at Maryville University. Her research and teaching focus on the intersection of gender and high-tech work, with a focus on the socialization of young women into computing careers. She is on the board for the Organization for the Study of Communication, Language, and Gender and the Social Media Club of St. Louis. E-mail: [email protected]
Dustin R. Nadler
Dr. Dustin R. Nadler is an assistant professor of psychology at Maryville University. His research and teaching focuses on effective teaching and student learning, as well as workplace issues, all centered on promoting social justice, especially applied to gender and diversity issues. He also works to promote and facilitate research among undergraduate students through the Social Science Research Organization at Maryville University and working with students on their own projects. E-mail: [email protected]