Engineering is Elementary

Engineering is Elementary is a comprehensive STEM education program developed by the Museum of Science (Boston) in collaboration with Tufts University and Vanderbilt University. The program aims to introduce elementary school students to the fundamentals of engineering design process and problem-solving skills, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts. By incorporating project-based learning and hands-on activities, Engineering is Elementary seeks to inspire young students to pursue careers in engineering and technology, much like NASA's STEM Resources and Code.org's Computer Science Education Week. The program has been recognized by National Science Foundation and American Society for Engineering Education for its innovative approach to STEM education.

Introduction to Engineering is Elementary

Engineering is Elementary is designed for students in elementary school, typically between grades 1-5, and is aligned with Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core State Standards Initiative. The program's curriculum is developed in partnership with educators and engineers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Harvard University, and University of California, Berkeley. By introducing students to engineering principles and design thinking, the program aims to foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills, similar to those promoted by Google's CS First and Microsoft's TEALS programs. Engineering is Elementary also provides professional development opportunities for teachers and educators to enhance their knowledge of STEM subjects and pedagogy, as offered by National Education Association and American Federation of Teachers.

History and Development

The development of Engineering is Elementary began in the early 2000s, with funding from National Science Foundation and Lemelson Foundation. The program was created in response to the growing need for STEM education in United States schools, as highlighted by National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Sciences. The program's founders, including Catherine L. Drennan and Christine Cunningham, drew inspiration from engineering education programs at Stanford University and Carnegie Mellon University. Since its inception, Engineering is Elementary has been implemented in over 10,000 schools across the United States, with support from organizations like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and 3M.

Curriculum and Content

The Engineering is Elementary curriculum consists of 20 units, each focusing on a specific engineering discipline, such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and biomedical engineering. The units are designed to be interdisciplinary, incorporating mathematics, science, and language arts skills, as recommended by National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and National Science Teachers Association. Students engage in hands-on activities and project-based learning, using materials like LEGO and K'NEX, to design and build solutions to real-world problems, similar to those presented by FIRST Robotics Competition and Science Olympiad. The program also includes assessments and evaluations to measure student learning and understanding, as developed by Educational Testing Service and College Board.

Implementation and Impact

Engineering is Elementary has been implemented in a variety of educational settings, including public schools, private schools, and after-school programs. The program has been shown to have a positive impact on student achievement and attitudes towards STEM subjects, as reported by National Center for Education Statistics and Program for International Student Assessment. Studies have also found that Engineering is Elementary helps to increase diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, as highlighted by National Society of Black Engineers and Society of Women Engineers. The program has been recognized by organizations like ASME Foundation and National Academy of Engineering for its contributions to STEM education.

Research and Evaluation

Research on Engineering is Elementary has been conducted by institutions like Harvard University's Graduate School of Education and University of Michigan's School of Education. Studies have investigated the program's effectiveness in improving student learning outcomes and interest in STEM subjects, as measured by standardized tests and surveys. The research has also examined the program's implementation and sustainability in different educational contexts, as reported by Journal of Engineering Education and Science Education. The findings have informed the development of professional development programs for teachers and educators, as offered by National Education Association and American Federation of Teachers, and have contributed to the growth of STEM education initiatives, such as Code.org and Girls Who Code.

Category:STEM education