Instructional Value and Quality of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Engagement Activities for Educators

10 pages•Published: June 2, 2026

Tulio Sulbaran, Sandeep Langar and Amani Qasrawi

Abstract

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is critical as it equips students with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven workforce. Central to this effort are K-12 educators, who play a pivotal role by translating complex STEM concepts into engaging, accessible learning experiences that inspire curiosity and critical thinking among students. The K-12 educators' ability to connect STEM content to real-world applications is essential for preparing them to thrive in future academic and career pathways. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the instructional value and quality of various STEM engagement activities designed for K–12 educators as a part of a one-week workshop. Through structured feedback from participants (K-12 educators), the study evaluated multiple hands-on and experiential learning activities across two key dimensions: Instructional Value (IV) and Instructional Quality (IQ). Data were collected using a standardized online evaluation instrument, enabling comparative analysis of educator perspectives across twelve distinct STEM activities. Findings indicate that activities were well received, perhaps because they were directly linked to real-world STEM careers, such as job shadowing and site visits. Additionally, K-12 educators who participated in the study rated the activities that emphasized teamwork and problem-solving very highly.

Keyphrases: k 12 educators, professional development, program evaluation, stem activities, teachers workshop

In: Wesley Collins, Anthony Perrenoud and John Posillico (editors). Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 62nd Annual International Conference, vol 7, pages 358-367.

Links:	https://easychair.org/publications/paper/qgwX
	https://doi.org/10.29007/hpwn

BibTeX entry

@inproceedings{ASC2026:Instructional_Value_Quality_Science,
  author    = {Tulio Sulbaran and Sandeep Langar and Amani Qasrawi},
  title     = {Instructional Value and Quality of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Engagement Activities for Educators},
  booktitle = {Proceedings of Associated Schools of Construction 62nd Annual International Conference},
  editor    = {Wesley Collins and Anthony Perrenoud and John Posillico},
  series    = {EPiC Series in Built Environment},
  volume    = {7},
  publisher = {EasyChair},
  bibsource = {EasyChair, https://easychair.org},
  issn      = {2632-881X},
  url       = {/publications/paper/qgwX},
  doi       = {10.29007/hpwn},
  pages     = {358-367},
  year      = {2026}}

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