REESE

In this NSF-funded project, called Transforming Elementary Science through LEGO(TM) Engineering Design, we are working with Boston-area 3rd and 4th grade classrooms to evaluate curriculum that helps students learn science content through LEGO engineering design. Teacher partners participate in a summer workshop, implement two science curriculum modules in their classroom each year for a minimum of two consecutive years, and help generate research data on how students learn science through engineering design. The curriculum units use LEGO engineering materials to help students master Massachusetts frameworks in physical and life sciences (sound, properties of materials, animal studies, simple machines). We are working to answer three main questions: 1.) What and how do students learn from engineering design challenges tailored to standards-based science concepts? 2.) What are the best ways to design effective science and engineering curricula? 3.) Can engineering contexts help improve elementary school teachers’ practice of science instruction?   This project is a collaboration of the CEEO, the Tufts University PACE Center, the Boston College Urban Sciences Research and Learning Group, and Boston-area teachers. It is funded by the National Science Foundation's REESE program under grant # DRL-0633952. For more information about becoming a teacher partner, please contact Project Director Kristen Bethke Wendell at