Technology-Enhanced Outcomes from the NASA Space Science Education Consortium

Abstract:

Theoretical foundations for empirical research on the impact of NASA Space Science Education Consortium (NSSEC) technology innovation activities are presented along with examples of three research designs – a) pre-post assessments, b) treatment versus comparison group studies, and c) retrospective pretest (reflecting on before versus after). Findings from four years of research on the impact of hands-on, technology-infused space science activities in informal learning settings indicate NSSEC technologies combined with rich engagement opportunities are capable of producing large content knowledge gains and an increase in interest in space science, as well as promoting the development of positive dispositions, in particular persistent positive attitudes, toward space science.