A contemporary science and engineering education program for 8th and 9th grade students

This paper describes a 5-day science and engineering education program for 8th and 9th grade students, held at Penn State Altoona in August 1997. The objectives of this program were (a) to create a vision of science and engineering that is process-oriented, motivational, exploratory, and encourages problem solving, and (b) to impart students tools which would be helpful to them in learning more advanced scientific concepts. Participants conducted a series of inquiry-based exercises designed to introduce them to contemporary concepts in engineering design, materials science, lasers/electro-optics/fiber-optics, statistical quality control, and biological sciences. Working collaboratively in teams, 8th and 9th graders who participated in this program designed experiments, manipulated equipment, made measurements, and interpreted and presented data in an appropriate style. Each student created a portfolio of written, graphic, and project materials which was evaluated by the project faculty at the conclusion of the program. The portfolio approach was used to enhance: verbal and written communication skills, interdisciplinary learning, conceptual understanding of science and engineering, student responsibility for learning, self esteem. The paper begins with a description of the reasons for conducting the above mentioned summer school of excellence for 8th and 9th graders. A discussion of portfolio approach is presented. The activities carried out as a part of the above mentioned program are described. Finally, the student assessment and program evaluation are discussed.