Share Paper: Using Innovative Technologies to Increase Middle School Students’ Interest in Space Science

  1. Rhonda Christensen, University of North Texas, United States
  2. Gerald Knezek, University of North Texas, United States
  3. Troy Cline, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, United States
  4. Carolyn Ng, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, United States
Wednesday, March 20 4:15-4:30 PM Sunset 1

Abstract: Innovative technologies can spark middle school interest in STEM careers. This paper is specifically focused on student interest in space science with the intention it will lead to more students choosing careers in this area. NASA’s STEM Innovation lab provides development and research of multiple types of innovative technologies aimed at this goal. Findings from research based on these activities offer optimism that engaging, technology-enhanced space science activities at the middle school level can help encourage middle school students to engage in activities that might lead to future scientists and engineers with space science-related areas as their chosen careers. Teacher ...