Using Science-Fiction Prototyping as a Means to Motivate Learning of STEM Topics and Foreign Languages

Abstract

In this paper we report on the operation and results of a pilot trial on the use of Science-Fiction Prototyping (SFP) as a means to motivate students to engage with STEM and language learning courses. In particular we describe two case studies. The first was conducted in Shijiazhuang University, China, and involved approximately 102 students following a course aimed at improving their English language abilities for computer science applications. The second case study concerned the use of micro science-fiction prototypes, in the form of Twitter-fiction, as a means of motivating pre-university students to take up STEM studies and careers. Finally, the paper concludes by describing future directions of this work.