Open-Ended Engineering at Family STEM Events

Abstract

AbstractBetween 2013 and 2015 EiE, the curricula division of the Museum of Science, Boston, conducted a randomized controlled trial of in-school engineering curricula with more than 14,000 students. We found that our specific design principles resulted in better engineering and science learning outcomes for students of all demographics relative to a control curriculum. These principles included an engaging narrative context, a structured engineering design process, and an open-ended challenge with multiple solutions (CitationLachapelle et al. 2019).Keywords: ElementaryInformal EducationEngineeringScience and Engineering PracticesSTEM Additional informationNotes on contributorsDerek ButtertonDerek Butterton is a curriculum developer at the Museum of Science, Boston, in Boston, Massachusetts.