Developing a Questionnaire and Evaluation Methods for a High School Rocket Program

摘要

Recently, there has been a push to increase students' interest and attitudes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields in the United States, particularly in engineering. The importance of STEM has been emphasized by numerous researchers (e.g., Cantrell, Pekcan, Itani, & Velasquez-Bryant, 2006; Hunter, 2006; Mayo, 2007; Sanchez & Olivares, 2011) along with several organizations (e.g., Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology [ABET], National Academy Press [NAE], Next Generation Science Standards [NGSS]). According to ABET Criteria, "the engineering sciences have their roots in mathematics and basic sciences but carry knowledge further toward creative application. These studies provide a bridge between mathematics and basic sciences on the one hand and engineering practice on the other. Engineering design is the process of devising a system, component, or process to meet desired needs. It is a process in which the basic sciences, mathematics, and the engineering sciences are applied to convert resources optimally to meet these stated needs." Likewise, a rocket project in the southern United States embraces adolescent students' needs to have a project-based learning experiences designed to provide an opportunity to improve multidisciplinary domains (e.g. physics, mathematics, atmospheric science) teamwork, communication, project management, and problem solving skills, as well as, focusing on immersion in a STEM environment that will enhance life-long active learning.