Examining 4-H Robotics and Geospatial Technologies in the Learning of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Topics

Posted March 3rd, 2009 by admin
Type: 
News Coverage
06/01/2008

Journal of Extension: June 2008, Volume 46 Number 3, Article Number 3IAW7
Bradley S. Barker, University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Gwen Nugent, University of Nebraska-Lincoln ;Neal Grandgenett, University of Nebraska at Omaha

Abstract: The study reported here investigated the use of educational robotics, paired with GPS and GIS geospatial technologies, as a context for learning selected concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics within a 4-H camp setting. The study involved 38 students between the ages of 11 to 15. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design was used in the study, with a 29-question multiple-choice instrument targeting various academic topics. The results of the study suggest that the 4-H robotics and geospatial summer camp program is a promising approach for supporting STEM-related learning, as represented by a significant increase of means from pretest to posttest. Click on the website link to read more.

State: 
NE
Primary Area of Focus: 
Engineering
Primary Area of Focus: 
robotics
Other Area(s) of Focus: 
Computer Science - Programming and Other
Other Area(s) of Focus: 
general skills and mathematics
Other Area(s) of Focus: 
programming
Other Area(s) of Focus: 
Environmental Science
Other Area(s) of Focus: 
ecological research and analysis
Other Area(s) of Focus: 
GIS/GPS
Content Area: 
Innovative Uses of Technology for Learning
Content Area: 
STEM Career Opportunities/Interests
Content Area: 
STEM/IT Content & Standards
Website: 
http://www.joe.org/joe/2008june/rb7.shtml
Project Name: 
Robotics and GPS/GIS in 4-H: Workforce Skills for the 21st Century