Date of Award/Publication

2002

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Mathematics, Science, and Technology Education

Abstract

This study was conducted in effort to increase class participation and excitement about science in an urban science classroom. It focused on a class of ninth-grade students enrolled in a secondary general science class. The subjects were given a problem-based learning (PBL) project that required them to research an endangered species found in North America. Observations regarding engagement and behavior were recorded daily in a journal. The results show that excitement and participation increased for most, but not all students. However, no decrease in engagement was seen. Classroom behavior also improved during the course of the study. The PBL method proved to he a useful tool for use with this particular class.

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