2017 - 2019

Under the leadership of Drs. Kelly Riedinger and Martin Storksdieck with assistance from Victoria Bonebrake, the Center collaborated with Iridescent Learning to study the impact of project-based learning using their Curiosity Machine program on students and their families in STEM (science-technology-engineering-mathematics). For this project, Iridescent collaborated with the Illinois Math and Science Academy to provide students at two schools in Chicago with engineering education experiences through its Curiosity Machine platform. The research study, led by the Center, examined the Curiosity Machine as an intervention in both an after-school setting that integrates family programming, and in grades 4-8 classrooms in the two participating schools.

The Curiosity Machine program is designed to engage youth in engineering design challenges with the support of engineering professionals who serve as mentors. The research study focused on measuring outcomes for students, especially related to academic achievement, interest in STEM careers, and higher-order cognitive skills. Additionally, the study measured outcomes for parents who participated in family events with their children.

Center Team: