An investigation of the impact an rov competition curriculum has on student interest in STEM, specifically technology and engineering

Abstract

This research investigates the impact a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) program has on student interest in, and perception of, technology and engineering (sTEm). ROV programs embed all areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) into their curriculum; however, emphasis for this research is placed on interest and perception of the "T" and "E" of STEM. Although there are many articles detailing the benefits of ROV programs, there is little empirical data documenting the impact on student interest and perception of sTEm. This research paper outlines the background of a couple ROV programs in the U.S.; specifically an ROV statewide program within a landlocked state, the methods for gathering data and findings from a sTEm survey instrument administrated to over 300 junior high aged students who participated in a five-month ROV program and near 50 students who did not. A few of the statistical significant results from the survey show students in the program score higher than those not in the program when asked to rate the following statements on a 5pt Likert agree scale: "I will probably get an engineering job later on" (p value:.019), "If there was a school club about engineering I would certainly join it" (p value:.021), and "How much do you like science?" (p value:.014). The entirety of qualitative and quantitative data is not being reported at this time, as it is currently being considered for publication in an engineering journal.