Revitalizing Achievement by Using Instrumentation in Science Education (RAISE), a GK-12 Fellows Project

Abstract

Revitalizing Achievement by using Instrumentation in Science Education (RAISE) was a National Science Foundation (NSF) funded project in which undergraduate and graduate engineering students (fellows) assisted high school science teachers with sensor-based experiments as lab exercises to expand on concepts taught in the classroom. By using sensors and computerized data acquisition, the RAISE project sought to enhance students’ academic achievement; excite them about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM); and inspire them to pursue STEM careers. Fellows assisted the teachers in presenting the lab experiments and helped students to understand the lab assignments. Despite difficulties in establishing appropriate baseline grades and comparison groups, analysis of available test scores of students involved in the RAISE versus non-RAISE classes indicates that (1) a slightly larger percentage of RAISE project students took standardized exams; (2) a larger percentage of RAISE project students passed the exams; and (3) the average grade attained by RAISE project students is slightly higher. Moreover, responses of high school students and their teachers to project evaluation questionnaires suggest that the RAISE project had some positive effects. The high school teachers were generally supportive of the project, found the fellows helpful in a variety of ways, and rated the sensor-based lab exercises as effective. The majority of teachers recommend participation in the project to other teachers. Fellows also recommend the project to other university students. They generally found the project a rewarding experience that helped them in developing their own science skills and most would be interested in continuing the experience.