Competition-Based Learning in Science Camp to Stimulate Upper Secondary School Students’ Motivation in Learning STEM
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/sh.v16n2.2137Keywords:
Experiential learning, STEM, science camp, students’ motivation, informal learning, competition-based learningAbstract
This paper introduces a study on the implementation of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-related modules in a science camp to stimulate the interest and motivation of students in learning STEM. The study shows the decision taken by a student to pursue STEM in
Tertiary education can be influenced by the people around them and the exposure provided during the high school years. The implementation of robust STEM education would help to combat the change at the age where students will seek their future direction. The incorporation of
competition-based learning and experiential learning, combined with the other classical and active learning techniques, have motivated the students and indirectly sparked their interest in STEM. Five unique STEM-related modules have been incorporated into this 3-day and 2-night science camp, which consists of 72 upper-secondary school students from seven selected boarding schools around Malaysia. The purpose of the science camp is to provide exposure for the students to understand the significance of STEM, cultivate a culture of innovation, and indirectly boost motivation among the students. The experience gained is summarized from the analysis of the survey via qualitative and quantitative means. Positive survey results, where 96% are now pursuing their tertiary education in the field of STEM, suggest that students are directly influenced and motivated by the use of competition in the STEM modules to collaboratively appreciate the beauty of STEM education while learning it together with a mission to win the competition.
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