A VIRTUAL SUMMER TECHNOLOGY CAMP’S IMPACT ON ELEMENTARY STUDENTS’ STEM ATTITUDES AND 21st CENTURY SKILLS: ITECH-STEM
Abstract: This paper presents research results of the Innovative Technology Challenges for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (ITECH-STEM) project developed for elementary-aged children through Technology focused “virtual” summer STEM camp. The ITECH-STEM project addresses gaps in the literature regarding educational uses of digital storytelling, programming and coding, game development, and 3-D modeling and printing. Research data collected on attitudes toward STEM subjects and careers, 21st-century skills, will be discussed. Data collected in the past years (2020 and 2021) will be analyzed and presented in the paper. Analysis of several years of data will include a comparison of mean scores of pre and post-test results of surveys administered during the ITECH-STEM program. The paper will also include a section of the “Lessons Learned” and “Best Practices” sections for STEM educators.