Create2Solve: DIY STEAM Kits that Empower Students to Solve Local Community Challenges in Underserved Areas

Abstract

In this study, we measure the effect of using contextually authentic and community-relevant DIY kits on the engagement and empowerment of underserved students. To achieve this goal, we designed and deployed Create2Solve Do It Yourself (DIY) STEAM kits based on community relevant generative themes to make socially disadvantaged students capable of solving the challenging local community problems. The adopted research approach is Mixed Methods Community-Based Participatory Action Research (MMCBPAR). Two prototypes of Create2Solve DIY STEAM kits - Waste Management Kit and Recycled Electronics Kit are deployed and tested in the underserved community with culturally diverse and deprived population. Each kit has In Classroom Activity Pack and “ExploreMore” Gift Pack that comes with detailed multi-modal teacher and student guides. Using In-Classroom Activity Pack, students create useful and innovative low-cost products in instructor’s presence for indigenous solution for prevailing issues in their community. Student Empowerment sessions are arranged by the school using ExploreMore Gift Pack where students develop innovative products on their own without instructor’s involvement. To evaluate the impact trial survey and educator feedback surveys were conducted to collect detailed feedback and recommendations of students and instructor respectively. An adapted version of BERI protocol was used to systematically collect detailed classroom observations on behavioral engagement of students. Results indicate that community centered kits can significantly increase the engagement of underserved students. Moreover, qualitative evidence of Student Empowerment sessions indicate that Create2Solve DIY STEAM kits can empower students by making them capable of contributing towards community welfare. Findings also suggest that these kits not only bridge the gap between classroom instruction and students’ indigenous knowledge, but also allow them to play an active part in personal and societal transformation.