Using Robotics and Engineering Design Inquiries to Optimize Mathematics Learning for Middle Level Teachers: A Case Study

Abstract

This exploratory case study reports findings on 20 middle-level science and mathematics teachers’ perceptions of the effectiveness of a one-year project in which teachers engaged in using robotics and engineering design inquiries in their classrooms. Principled by Bandura’s Social Learning Theory (SLT) and using mixed methods approaches, the study measured teachers' efficacy through the Mathematics Teaching Efficacy Belief Instrument (MTEBI) and observation logs before and after the program. The results of this study showed statistically significant differences between PRE MTEBI and POST MTEBI scores. Furthermore, five themes emerged that illuminated potential affordances and constraints that teachers perceive as opportunities and barriers to employing robotics and design thinking in the mathematics/science classrooms. The reported themes are creating collaborative spaces underpinned by design thinking affords transformative learning; problem-solving through shared inquiry elevates confidence; building connections between mathematical concepts and real-life phenomenon supports a willingness to learn new ideas; system support, resources, and funding are prerequisites to engage in modeling design; and designated curriculum restrains teachers from engaging in extra activities that focus on design thinking.

Mathematical Content on Stem Activities

“…Sharing this knowledge within the community will lessen fear and afford teachers confidence (Chahine, Robinson, & Mansion, 2020). On the other hand, the findings assert the point of view that STEM projects hold the potential to be used as a-didactical situations.…”

The Analysis of Students and Teachers Readiness On Distance Learning Mathematics In New Normal

“…4(b) shows that most of the teachers have the funds needed to run distance learning. Financial support for mathematics learning has been carried out by (Chahine et al, 2020) by using robots to help students learn mathematics, and also to help teachers be more confident, can motivate and be more persistent to learn. A learning process for students of course needs support from parents, older siblings, or people around them so that the results obtained are better.…”