Impact of informal learning environments on STEM education—Views of elementary students and their parents

Abstract

Abstract This single case study design examines the impact of collaborative inquiry‐ and design‐based learning on elementary students enrolled in the STEM summer camp program. Sixty‐five students participated in a two‐week summer camp that offered a curriculum centered on (a) coding; (b) STEM arts; (c) 3D printing; and (d) digital storytelling. Data is primarily collected through follow‐up interviews with students and their parents; and complemented with student’s journals, daily progress reports, and post‐camp surveys for both parents and students. The findings indicate that students enjoyed STEM camp as the activities were collaborative and hands‐on. Findings also indicated summer learning experience could act as a platform to engage students in STEM activities and promote integrated learning of different content areas. On the other hand, the results from parental data suggested that their purpose of enrolling children in a STEM camp is to provide them sustained exposure to the STEM curriculum and engage them in real‐world applications.