Fifth Graders’ Views on STEM Activities: A Case Study

Abstract

Aim of this study was to investigate fifth graders’ views on STEM activities. Thus, a three-week case study was introduced in this paper. The sample consisted of ten students (five girls and five boys). Study was carried out in two phases. In first phase, science and mathematical knowledge was introduced to students. In second phase, students were asked to design materials by applying engineering design process skills. Study was carried out with respect to case study design which was one of the qualitative research methods. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling, which was a purposive sampling method. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview questionnaire having five questions. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Content analyzes were carried out in four stages. Inter-rater reliability was calculated and found as 84.37%. Participants stated that STEM activities contributed significantly to science and math classes. Positive views stated by the students also indicated that students were able to make concrete learning from abstract topics. They acquired knowledge through experiencing. On the other hand, they also noted that they had faced numerous challenges during STEM activities. Conclusion drawn from the study implied that by taking necessary measures to avoid of negative aspects identified by the study, STEM activities would benefit fifth grade students.