ERIC Number: EJ1268886
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020
Pages: 24
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0731-9258
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
A Retrospective Analysis of the Impact of SpaceMath@NASA on Student Performance in Math and Science
Odenwald, Sten; Davis, Hilarie; Bowers, Sharon
Journal of Computers in Mathematics and Science Teaching, v39 n4 p315-338 2020
Real world, mathematics-based educational activities provide context for learning and break down barriers to learning in mathematics and science. SpaceMath@NASA (hereafter SpaceMath) provides teachers with real-world math activities in a space context in support of standards, by using current NASA discoveries as a starting point for motivating students to develop and use mathematics skills. The reach and efficacy of SpaceMath in supporting NASA's STEM mission was examined through an analysis of the resources and website data, a survey of a subset of listserv members, data from workshop attendees - new users of SpaceMath, and a comparison group study. SpaceMath has been used by millions of educators who consistently report that SpaceMath aligns with what they teach, that they can immediately apply what they have learned in workshops, and are able to use it in their classes. Educators report that students enjoy the application problems and topics, are productively engaged, and ask questions that demonstrate curiosity and interest. Use of SpaceMath to teach science concepts and apply math skills provides a context that enhances student understanding.
Descriptors: Mathematics Instruction, Mathematics Activities, Relevance (Education), Space Sciences, Space Exploration, Educational Technology, Electronic Learning, Workshops, Program Effectiveness, Scientific Concepts, Mathematics Skills, STEM Education, Elementary Secondary Education
Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education. P.O. Box 719, Waynesville, NC 28786. Tel: 828-246-9558; Fax: 828-246-9557; e-mail: info@aace.org; Web site: http://www.aace.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: NNH06ZDA001NEPO; NNH10CC53CEPO; 80GSFC17C0003
Author Affiliations: N/A