Goals and Objectives:
The goal of this research is to evaluate Techxcite, an experiential and inquiry-based curriculum in engineering/technology. The questions that the research seeks to investigate are: 1) Are the youth learning about engineering/technology from the specific curriculum modules? 2) Have the youth become more interested in engineering/technology as a result? The overall objective of the research is to measure youth competence and enthusiasm in science, engineering and technology.
Preparation:
Over the past three years WV 4-H program has been involve in the implementation of the Techxcite Curriculum. The implementation has occurred through working with youth in 4-H camps and in afterschool groups. The curriculum is intended to engage boys and girls, from rural and urban areas, in the rich and vibrant field of engineering through discovery-based Modules. Each Module consists of four or five activities that build upon each other. Youth get their hands on real world engineering design projects while learning how to work together in teams. Modules have helped youth to explore: Prosthetic limbs that help people who are disabled from a lost limb; Imaging of the human body; Harvesting solar energy to power cars or other systems; Transportation; and Wireless Remote Controls.
There are various reasons why West Virginia needs to partner with the Techxcite Program. And be involved in the subsequent research findings. According to the WV Department of Education, 60% of all WV third grade students taking the WESTEST in 2010 did not meet the standards in science and 70% of all WV ninth graders did not meet the standards. According to the Science and Engineering Readiness Index (SERI) which was created by the American Institute...
... middle of paper ...
...l research protocols were followed in Kanawha County as we offered three TechXcite solar car classes and one burglar alarm class at residential or day camps. Kanawha County was also selected to host a focus group of youth that completed the modules and then discussed their interest in science and attitudes towards the engineering modules. Focus group findings are not yet available.
Collaborators and Funding Sources:
This research project was a collaboration between WVU Extension Service and Duke University’s Pratt School of Engineering. WVU is one of several states where Techxcite program will be offered. The other states are California, Michigan, Missouri, Colorado, and Oklahoma. Duke University is the lead organization that developed the Techxcite curriculum modules, coordinates sub-sites for program implementation, and oversees evaluation and research processes.