Transforming Elementary Science through LEGO™ Engineering Design

Principal Investigator: Chris Rogers
Co-Principal Investigator: Linda Jarvin and G. Michael Barnett
Project Directors: Kathleen Connolly (PACE) and Kristen Bethke (CEEO)

Description: The primary motivation for this project is to address the need for improved learning and teaching of science in the elementary grades. We propose to address this need through the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative engineering-based science curriculum for grades 3 – 5. The engineering-based science curriculum will utilize the LEGO™ MINDSTORMS toolkit, an instructional material which has been proven to be engaging for children’s engineering. We are particularly interested in (1) measuring what and how students learn from engineering design challenges tailored to standards-based science concepts, (2) establishing best practices for designing engineering curricula which promote students’ fundamental understanding of and interest in science content, and (3) determining whether engineering contexts improve elementary teachers’ practice of science instruction. We seek to advance the theory, design, and practice of elementary-school engineering education, to potentially motivate and deepen the learning of elementary science.

Funding Agency: National Science Foundation
IRB Approval by: Tufts University Faculty of Arts and Science Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects
Funding Period: 2006 - 2011