ERIC Number: EJ1342298
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022-Aug
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0162-3257
EISSN: N/A
Experiences of Students, Teachers, and Parents Participating in an Inclusive, School-Based Informal Engineering Education Program
Chen, Yu-Lun; Murthi, Kavitha; Martin, Wendy; Vidiksis, Regan; Riccio, Ariana; Patten, Kristie
Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, v52 n8 p3574-3585 Aug 2022
Many youth on the autism spectrum possess interests and strengths for STEM-related postsecondary pathways, yet there are few research-based programs to support those interests and competencies including complex problem solving and social communication. This qualitative study explored the experiences and perceived outcomes of students, teachers, and parents participating in an inclusive, strength-based, extracurricular engineering design program entitled the IDEAS Maker Club. Twenty-six students, 13 parents, and nine teachers in the program completed interviews and program logs while researchers conducted classroom observations over 2 years. Thematic analysis identified five common themes: (1) positive student experience and engagement, (2) skills acquisition, (3) development of interest in STEM and related careers, (4) social relationships and community, and (5) safe spaces that supported self-determination.
Descriptors: Student Experience, Teaching Experience, Inclusion, Engineering Education, Informal Education, Parent Attitudes, STEM Education, Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Student Attitudes, Teacher Attitudes, Clubs, Extracurricular Activities, Teachers, Students, Parents
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2123/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Board (NSB) (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: 1614436