Influences on Science Fair Participant Research Design Selection and Success

The purpose of this investigation is to gain a better understanding of the characteristics of pre‐college researchers by examining the influences on research design selection and success in competition. The 22 participants were finalists at the 44th International Science and Engineering Fair, where...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:School science and mathematics 1996-12, Vol.96 (8), p.400-406
Main Author: Pyle, Eric J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Academic Achievement
Awards
Competition
Design
Elementary Secondary Education
Engineering
Exhibits
Incentives
Influence
Influences
Internship Programs
Parent Background
Parent Influence
Research Design
Research Methodology
Researchers
Science Activities
Science education
Science Fairs
Student Motivation
Success
Teaching Methods
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Summary:The purpose of this investigation is to gain a better understanding of the characteristics of pre‐college researchers by examining the influences on research design selection and success in competition. The 22 participants were finalists at the 44th International Science and Engineering Fair, where they completed a questionnaire describing the influences on their research activities and methodologies. Additional data consisted of artifacts collected from the participants and the Science Service. Data were analyzed using an interpretive methodology. Assertions generated from the analysis indicated that students are largely accurate in self‐reports of design, interacted with mentors on several levels, outside influences reflect shifts in motivational orientation, and success attributions reflect internalization of influences. Recommendations for future research with science fair participants are included.
ISSN:0036-6803
1949-8594
DOI:10.1111/j.1949-8594.1996.tb15863.x