ERIC Number: EJ1381594
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1049-4820
EISSN: EISSN-1744-5191
Exploring Youths' Attitudes toward Science in a Makerspace-Infused After-School Program
Hsu, Pi-Sui; Lee, Eric Monsu; Smith, Thomas J.; Kraft, Carol
Interactive Learning Environments, v31 n1 p355-369 2023
The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore how an after-school program that infused Maker education influenced Midwestern U.S. middle school youths' attitudes toward science. The researchers conducted pre- and post-interviews with six students from non-dominant backgrounds as well as the teacher, and also administered attitudinal surveys to the six students at two time points (pre/post). Additionally, the researchers observed the level of student participation by video-recording each after-school session, observed the level of student anxiety by using skin temperature biofeedback, and examined student artifacts. At the end of the program, the researchers administered a program survey to the six students. The findings revealed three themes (fun elements of science, career choice, trial and error). In this study, the after-school program infused with Maker education showed great potential in sustaining the non-dominant youths' positive attitudes toward science. The findings speak to the need for future studies that investigate pedagogy issues in Making after-school programs and also highlight equity issues in the opportunities for non-dominant youth to participate in these programs.
Descriptors: Middle School Students, Scientific Attitudes, After School Programs, Shared Resources and Services, STEM Education, Student Attitudes, Disadvantaged Youth, Minority Group Students, Females, Power Structure, Program Effectiveness
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A