Supporting engineering practices in informal learning environments with a tablet-based engineering design environment

Research demonstrates that out-of-school STEM experiences can influence career development and STEM persistence [1]. However, helping students engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts and practices in out-of-school settings can be particularly challenging since youth are often able to choose to drop in or out and inconsistent attendance is the norm. Studying and documenting student learning becomes even more complex when facilitators of out-of-school time activities have limited experience and/or comfort with STEM concepts and practices. This paper explores how tablet-based technologies that support Knowledge Integration (KI) and informed design can support out-of-school STEM learning. The paper presents a case study of a program implemented in a mid-Atlantic chapter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Ten different blended engineering design activities (i.e., combining hands-on and virtual components) were completed by youth. Completion rates suggest the potential for tablet-based environments designed to support KI to both facilitate and capture out-of-school STEM learning opportunities. This case study is part of a larger initiative supported by NSF through the AISL funding stream.