Engaging STEM

Abstract

To stimulate student interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) disciplines, the University of Central Florida (UCF) partnered with the Crooms Academy of Information Technology (CAIT), a public magnet high school that emphasizes technology education for a diverse student population. Using digital tools and a service-learning model, UCF chemistry and biology students partnered with CAIT students to debunk science myths, perform laboratory experiments, and engage in an experiential oyster reef restoration project. This chapter provides an overview of project activities, implementation and the value of using technology. Challenges are detailed to offer a model for future community partnerships. The chapter concludes with a set of best practices for future projects.

A Systematic Review of e-Service Learning in Higher Education

“…A study about students' critical reflection [16], a comparison between online and traditional service learning [14] and success factors of e-Service Learning [3] resulted in one each. -Lawler [3] Case Study Garca-Gutierrez et al [4] -Yusof [5] Mixed Methods Griffin [6] -Nielsen [7] -Shah [8] Case Study Howlett [9] Mixed Methods Helms [10] Saitta [11] Case Study Jia [12] Case Study Gasper-Hulvat [13] -McGorry [14] -Marcus [15] Action research Guthrie and McCracken [16] -Guthrie and McCracken [17] Qualitative Method Salam [18] -Chen [19] -Fry [20] -Ruso [21] Mixed Methods Harris [22] -…”

“…It is no doubt that E-Service Learning challenges educators to make full use of technology instead of replacing instructors with technology, focusing on design technology that conforms itself to the students' need, allowing the redesign and expansion of learning activities and creation of new learning possibilities that were not available previously in traditional face-to-face Service Learning setting. Flexibility also played a key role for instructors and for students [6]. Instructors that interested to integrate technology in their Service Learning project had to be flexible, think creatively and work through unexpected situations.…”

Students’ Perception Towards Engaging Factors of Extreme e-Service Learning Design for Computer Network Course

“…Salam, et al [8] proposed a technological framework for e-Service Learning and suggest that educators should integrate suitable technology for each phases of e-Service Learning depending on their objectives and the nature of the projects too. In transforming to extreme e-Service Learning, flexibility is very crucial for educators and students [9]. Flexibility enables instructors to think creatively and work through unforeseen situation, meanwhile students can benefit from this as this is the opportunity to nurture resourcefulness and creative thinking skills among them.…”