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  • CAP-B: A New Teaching Methodology for STEM Education Using Project-Based Learning and Blended Practical in a Cognitive Apprenticeship Framework
Title: CAP-B: A New Teaching Methodology for STEM Education Using Project-Based Learning and Blended Practical in a Cognitive Apprenticeship Framework
Although the demand for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) personnel continues to raise in the U.S. workforce, it has been revealed that STEM education is not providing the necessary supply. Graduates with a STEM education are below their counterparts internationally. This paper seeks to introduce a new teaching methodology, based on a merger of Project-Based Learning (PBL), Hands-on Learning (HOL), Simulation-Based Learning (SBL), and the Cognitive Apprenticeship (CA) framework, aimed at improving learning in STEM education. The methodology aims to address three of the four main causes for the STEM paradox, namely (i) shortage of graduates with Soft Skills, (ii) lack of qualified technicians, and (iii) untapped pools of talent while increasing students’ self-efficacy. It has been implemented as a case study for the past four years in four courses. Analysis of results has shown that, for all courses, students (i) acquired and increased their domain knowledge, procedural and processed knowledge while solving problems, in given scenarios resulting in their expertise level increasing. These results also showcased an increased their self-efficacy as well as their Soft Skills, especially Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOLS) competency levels.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2021203
PAR ID:
10475831
Author(s) / Creator(s):
Publisher / Repository:
David Publishing Company
Date Published:
Journal Name:
US-China Education Review A
Volume:
13
Issue:
3
ISSN:
2161-623X
Page Range / eLocation ID:
120-137
Subject(s) / Keyword(s):
STEM education cognitive apprenticeship project-based leaning simulation-based learning hands-on learning
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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