Study of computer attitudes in STEM problem‐solving for students with disabilities

Abstract

Students with disabilities have limited opportunities to become problem solvers due to the deficit‐thinking mindset of their teachers. Thus, technology could facilitate the development of problem‐solving skills for these students, which requires an understanding of student computer attitudes in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) problem‐solving. However, there is limited research about computer attitudes in problem‐solving for students with disabilities. To address this challenge, this study first developed a questionnaire on computer attitudes in problem‐solving in STEM (Colorado assessment of problem‐solving [CAPS]‐STEM) and validated this instrument for the population of elementary school students with disabilities (N = 199). The questionnaire was then used in a sequential explanatory mixed methods study to examine factors affecting CAPS‐STEM for students with disabilities in two inclusive classrooms. Results of the study indicate significant positive correlations among students' self‐perceived confidence, knowledge, and competence in using computers for STEM problem‐solving. These attitudes were mostly affected by the nature of the assigned projects, existing school support for teachers, available technology resources, and teachers’ mindsets about the abilities of students with disabilities.

STEM Support for Students with Disabilities

“…Other challenges-like the lack of teacher skill in knowing how to adapt lessons for SWDs and the lack of STEM role models who resonate with SWDs-are conceivably rooted in the core belief that this student segment does not belong in STEM careers anyway, let alone that it can excel them. Sadly, when left unmitigated or unchecked, SWDs frequently internalize this silent messaging and harbor relatively low confidence in STEMbased endeavors (Du & Lyublinskaya, 2023). Some maintain that several strategies for mitigating these difficulties create a formidable defense in assisting SWDs in their quest to make their mark in STEM fields.…”