Student Perceptions of a Summer Ventures in Science and Mathematics Camp Experience

• Published in: School science and mathematics 2016-12, Vol.116 (8), p.420-429
• Main Authors: Binns, Ian C., Polly, Drew, Conrad, James, Algozzine, Bob
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: attitudes; camp; perceptions; STEM education
• ISSN: 0036-6803; 1949-8594
• DOI: 10.1111/ssm.12196

“As the world becomes increasingly technological, the value of (the ideas and skills of its population) will be determined in no small measure by the effectiveness of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in the United States” and “STEM education will determine whether the United States will remain a leader among nations and whether we will be able to solve immense challenges in such areas as energy, health, environmental protection, and national security” (President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology, 2010, p. vii). Research on the effectiveness of STEM‐focused school and other learning experiences (e.g., short‐term camps) on student attitudes and performance outcomes is sparse. In this study, we documented the influence of an intensive STEM summer program on high school students’ attitudes toward STEM concepts and interests in STEM careers. Attending the summer program was associated with gains on students’ attitudes toward some aspects of STEM as well as specific career interests. Notably, students reported statistically significant views of important aspects of STEM and their attitudes toward science and mathematics were more positive than their attitudes about engineering and technology.