The University of Massachusetts Amherst

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two high school female students collaborating on a science experiment“While scientists search for the best explanation for a natural phenomenon,
engineers search for the best possible solution to a problem.” Nieswandt, McEneaney (2012)

This collaborative research project funded by National Science Foundation (NSF) analyzes, evaluates and compares small group work on inquiry-based tasks and engineering design tasks in high school science classes. Participating high schools from across the Pioneer Valley in Western Massachusetts include high schools representing communities of different socio-economic backgrounds. The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) stress the teaching and learning of scientific and engineering practices in order for students to understand and experience how scientists and engineers work, and how scientific knowledge is produced and engineering solutions are developed. Knowledge of both scientific and engineering practices domains help students address major societal challenges such as treating diseases, addressing climate change, and generating sufficient and affordable energy.

At its core, modern scientific research and engineering design work is teamwork which is most effective when members are deeply engaged cognitively and emotionally. Drawing from social psychological and organizational theory, this project holistically investigates whether students demonstrate collective coping strategies during small group work.

Results of this research may be used to create valid diagnostic tools:

  • To evaluate students’ varying strengths and weaknesses,
  • To use these profiles to assemble students in small groups that are optimal for science learning, and
  • To efficiently monitor on-going group process.

NSF REESE 2012 Proposal
Grant Activity Dates: September 2013 – August 2017