The Development of Creative Minds: A Case Study of Technology In GSSM and HSASNU STEM Classrooms
Isabel Strinsky · Furman University Scholar Exchange (Furman University) · 2019
This study was designed to show how technology is used to educate students at two residential high schools, one in Shanghai, China (HSASNU) and the other in Hartsville, South Carolina (GSSM). Specifically, HSASNU’s STEM academy and GSSM’s GoSciTech programs were studied. The goal was to learn how the exposure to technology would affect the Chinese students’ STEM interest in both schools. It was hypothesized, prior to arriving in China, that technology use would be similar or the same to that of GSSM. Data was collected through explanatory mixed methods. Focus groups were held at HSASNU and GSSM with the Chinese students, interviews were conducted with STEM faculty members, and STEM classes and labs were observed. The data collected was then coded for present patterns and themes, including STEM interest and student opinion. This analysis showed that the STEM Academy was more student-based and included more learning technology in its curriculum than that of HSASNU’s regular classes, however the STEM academy was also found to be in its development phase. GoSciTech was also found to utilize student-based learning approaches, but contrary to HSASNU teacher-based learning approaches were also equally utilized when pertaining to technology. Because GoSciTech has a formally defined curriculum, these findings can help faculty at GSSM aid in the future development of the STEM Academy.