Underwater Robotics Experience Changes Student Interest in sTEm
Abstract: This research investigates the impact a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) program has on student interest in, and perception of, technology and engineering (sTEm). Although there are many articles detailing the benefits of ROV programs, there is little empirical data documenting the impact on student interest and perception of sTEm. This research paper outlines an ROV statewide program within a landlocked state, and presents the findings from a pre post sTEm survey instrument administrated to over 300 junior high aged students who participated in a five-month ROV program. The results from the pre post survey show that student interest in “becoming an engineering someday” increased (p value: .031), “I would like to take a class about engineering” (p value: .011) increased, and “I am good at science” (p value: .054) also showed statistical significance.