Mini workshop — P — 12 engineering education: Using Engineering Teaching Kits to address student misconceptions in science

The primary goal of this mini-workshop is to introduce participants to practical, validated methods of identifying and remediating student misconceptions concerning scientific concepts through the use of Engineering Teaching Kits (ETKs). ETKs are self-contained standards-based units grounded in the constructivist philosophy of education and the principles of guided inquiry and active learning. They were originally developed for use in middle schools, but the activities have proven scalable throughout P-12. By the end of the workshop, participants will be introduced to the literature on misconceptions; be able to identify appropriate methods for assessing misconceptions; and gain experience in using ETK activities to remediate misconceptions. Participants will have the opportunity to work with popular ETKs, HoverHoos and Save the Penguins, to accomplish these learning objectives. The instructors will provide discussion notes, appropriate references, and materials. Attendees will be registered with the ETK Collaborative web site for access to additional ETKs and supporting materials. This mini-workshop will be of interest to faculty and program staff involved in P-12 outreach activities, and to P-12 educators interested in developing integrated STEM curricula.