Using Hands-on Engineering Models as a tool for K-12 Outreach Events
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Wastewater and waste management hands-on models are very important tools that can be used to develop an understanding of how we treat our water for everyday use. It is especially important when we try to relay this information to younger students as a form of STEM outreach. These models allow for us to demonstrate very complex processes in a way that they understand and allowing them to see the importance of it. This research utilized hands-on models to explain environmental engineering concepts to 5th grades in the Atlanta Public Schools District as part of an outreach event. Instructional videos explaining how to use the models were created for the college volunteers to minimize the apprehension to outreach events. A reflective survey was provided to the volunteers after the outreach activity to understand how tools, such as hands-on models, can increase engagement and how community-engaged activities can change the attitudes and self-efficacy in college volunteers.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
SPCEET - Civil and Environmental Engineering
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Amy Gruss
Using Hands-on Engineering Models as a tool for K-12 Outreach Events
Wastewater and waste management hands-on models are very important tools that can be used to develop an understanding of how we treat our water for everyday use. It is especially important when we try to relay this information to younger students as a form of STEM outreach. These models allow for us to demonstrate very complex processes in a way that they understand and allowing them to see the importance of it. This research utilized hands-on models to explain environmental engineering concepts to 5th grades in the Atlanta Public Schools District as part of an outreach event. Instructional videos explaining how to use the models were created for the college volunteers to minimize the apprehension to outreach events. A reflective survey was provided to the volunteers after the outreach activity to understand how tools, such as hands-on models, can increase engagement and how community-engaged activities can change the attitudes and self-efficacy in college volunteers.