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Title: Applying the Performance Pyramid Model in STEM Education
The purpose of this paper was to give a demonstration of the primary materials and methods we used in learning communities (LCs) for biology students. The LCs were based on the performance pyramid theoretical structure. The objectives were to show the pedagogical links biological and mathematical concepts through co-curricular projects; assess students’ perceptions of the performance pyramid model, and demonstrate a method for assessing LC efficacy directly related to General Biology I and College Algebra course content. Forty-eight students were recruited into the LCs with 39 students completing the LCs. The participants completed co-curricular projects that linked biology and mathematics course content with guidance from a peer leader. The LC participants completed the Augmented Student Support Needs Scale (SSNS-A) to assess perceptions of performance pyramid elements, as well as separate biology and mathematics quizzes related to their General Biology I and College Algebra courses, respectively. It was found that all co-curricular projects had biology and mathematics learning objective and outcomes. The SSNS-A had adequate internal consistency for appraising multiple aspects of the performance pyramid in general. However, some aspects and student responses might need more clarification. The quizzes had adequate internal consistency and LC students had large gains in biology (d = 1.88) and mathematics (d = 2.62) knowledge and skills from the beginning to end of their General Biology I and College Algebra courses. Promising aspects and limitations the LC activities and assessments are discussed.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1719262
PAR ID:
10223424
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ;
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Journal of STEM education: Innovations and Research
Volume:
22
Issue:
1
Page Range / eLocation ID:
25-33
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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