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From building blocks to building bridges: how kids play may help explain what inspires them to learn, especially in subjects like math and science.
Researchers at the NASA-sponsored Classroom of the Future, located in the Center for Educational Technologies at Wheeling Jesuit University, are studying what inspires learning; their findings are being used to help students achieve more in the so-called STEM careers — science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
So far, Classroom of the Future researchers have identified five keys to learners' growth in STEM inspiration:
- creativity
- imagination
- identity
- mental models
- self-efficacy (a person's perception that they can succeed at a task)
These dimensions work together to improve learners' skill levels and ability to take on challenges. In addition, researchers are studying how role models can help learners believe they can succeed at a STEM task.
LEGO's MindStorms robotics provide a good tool to test the research. Students use the LEGO blocks in addition to robotics components that they put together. The students then perform tasks using the robotics. The researchers will study if successful role models will help students believe they can succeed with the robotics during informal education workshops.
A video recently taped at the Classroom of the Future captured 13 students from the Ohio Valley at work with the robotics. They acted as role models in the video, titled "RoboKids," which will be used to help other young people succeed at robotics.
Nine of the students had experience with robotics thanks to their participation on the Organized Chaos team sponsored by the Classroom of the Future. The team of Girl Scouts competes in the annual FIRST LEGO League robotics competition.
The FIRST LEGO League asks teams of children to demonstrate problem-solving and research skills, creative thinking, teamwork, competitive play, sportsmanship and sense of community. Judges score the teams in five areas:
- research and presentation
- robot performance
- technical mechanics of the robot's construction
- teamwork
- gracious professionalism
In the "RoboKids" video the students demonstrate a problem-solving procedure for LEGO robotics. This procedure is fundamental to all programming and will transfer as the basis for advanced computer programming as the learners mature.
The Classroom of the Future will host a premiere of "RoboKids" in November as part of a Center for Educational Technologies® open house.
The Classroom of the Future is the space agency's principal research and development center for educational technologies. It opened on the Wheeling Jesuit University campus in 1990.
The Center for Educational Technologies also houses the Challenger Learning Center®, which provides students, teachers and adult learners with simulations that emphasize teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making and communication skills. Since its inception in 1994, more than 100,000 people have visited the center or participated in simulations from their own classrooms through distance learning.
What toys inspire your kids to learn? Tell us about them — we'd love to hear from you!
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