The Study of Stream Litter Accumulation as a Model for Cross-Disciplinary, Transformative, Affordable, and Scalable Undergraduate Research Experiences in STEM

Abstract

Undergraduate learning in STEM is enhanced by participation in tractable and relevant research projects. Simultaneously, it is challenging to design meaningful research opportunities that remain affordable, engage students in most aspects of the scientific process, and offer opportunities for transformative learning experiences. We designed a collaborative 12-week undergraduate research project based on the quantification of litter along two urban streams in the Oklahoma City (United States) metropolitan area, addressing a regional issue with global implications. This study engaged six undergraduate students at a low cost with commonly available equipment. Three faculty involved brought expertise in physical stream characterization, ecology, statistics, and mathematical modeling, allowing students to approach data analysis from multidisciplinary and collaborative perspectives. Students participated in nearly all stages of scientific research, including a brief literature survey, data collection and analysis toward addressing research questions, interpretation of results, and presentation at a scientific meeting. Post-project surveys revealed that students held highly favorable perceptions in relation to overarching project goals, including improvements in data management and quantitative analysis, in comprehension of scientific abstracts, in grasping the scientific process, and in skill development toward future career goals. Student perceptions regarding the importance of participation in generating data, interest in future data analysis, and the importance of receiving financial compensation for participation were less favorable and varied. Despite increased interest in conducting future field work, interest in pursuing a career in research was slightly diminished after participation in the project. Evidence of transformative learning existed in the targeted areas of scholarly activity and health and wellness. We discuss the benefits of our study design, including suggestions for improvement and the adaptability of this study for other educational contexts.

STEM and STEAM Education in Russian Education: Conceptual Framework

“…Modern STEM education is a combination of sciences, which is directed at developing new technologies, at introducing innovations, the basis of which is the training of engineering personnel. It is important to note that such an education system based on STEM will be effective only if it is properly managed, and its stable operation at all levels will be observed (Chanthala et al, 2018;Gatan et al, 2021;Goates et al, 2016;Menger, 2014;Parks et al, 2021;Raven, 2002;Segura, 2017;Shchedrovitsky, 1995;Shchedrovitsky et al, 1993;Skurikhina et al, 2018;Starcic et al, 2017;Valeeva & Valeeva, 2013).…”

Exploring the role of motivation in STEM education: A systematic review

“…STEM education aims to develop learners' knowledge and skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, such as creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving (Hasanah, 2020;Martynenko et al, 2023;Shchemeleva, 2020). With the advent of STEM education in 2009 in the United States (White House Office of the Press Secretary, 2009), researchers have developed formal and informal education programs for students at various levels, from kindergarten through undergraduate, to provide STEM skills that will prepare them for the future (e.g., Belayneh, 2021;Chittum et al, 2017;Morgan et al, 2022;Parks et al, 2021;Schnittka et al, 2012). In parallel with these educational advances, many nations have developed new curricula for STEM education and updated their existing curricula according to the skills that STEM education requires (Andreev et al, 2020;National Science & Technology Council, 2013;Ritz & Fan, 2015).…”

The implications of stem training on the development of younger students' research abilities: An exploration of practices

“…STEM education is a digital learning platform based on science and techniques similar to the modern educational innovation process. (Parks, Hendryx, & Taylor, 2021). STEM education can be used at all levels of middle school education to ensure that the conceptual ideas of competence-and activity-based methods are effectively implemented (Hassan, Abdullah, Ismail, Suhud, & Hamzah, 2019).…”