Challenges and Benefits of Introducing a Science and Engineering Fair in High-Needs Schools (Work in Progress)

摘要

Science and Engineering (S&E) Fairs are a valuable educational activity that are believed to increase students' engagement and learning in science and engineering by emphasizing creativity and inquiry-focused learning. However, S&E Fairs put demands on teachers, parents, and students for time and resources. Organizing such an event is especially demanding in the first few years of implementation. As a result, poor and low-achieving schools are less likely to implement such a program for their students, despite the potential benefits. Our study is based on data from teachers from mostly low-achieving schools who engaged in a program focused on introducing S&E Fairs at their schools. Our research questions included: (1) Do teachers perceive S&E Fairs as effective educational tools? (2) What professional development activities are effective in encouraging S&E Fair implementation? (2) What benefits do teachers perceive from introducing S&E Fairs to their school? (3) What challenges do teachers face in introducing S&E Fairs to their school?