iPads, MakerEd and More in Education

Teens who read about the personal and intellectual struggles of scientists feel more motivated to learn science.  That was the finding of a recent study out of Teachers College, Columbia University and the University of Washington.

Why? Many high school students view scientific ability as a fixed trait that is not responsive to effort. As the researchers wrote: “When students struggle in science classes, they may misperceive their struggle as an indication that they are not good at science and will never succeed.” When students learn about how even famous scientists struggled, they began to see that learning and growing from setbacks is part of a successful professional journey.

The researchers noted that published stories about scientists often focus on achievements but neglect mention challenges scientists faced. When Lisa Brennan, a middle school librarian at St. Christopher’s School in Virginia, read about this study in a recent MindShift article, her initial reaction was, “Wow, that parallels the research on the connection between fiction and empathy.” She reached out to her extensive Twitter followers to start gathering titles that cover both the achievements and the struggles of exemplary scientists that could be used with older students.

This year's Young Scientist Challenge will award access to 3M scientists who will serve as mentors to help students pursue their innovative ideas. These "young scientists" (from grades 5-8) will also be eligible to receive a considerable amount of money; the grand prize is $25,000. Finalists chosen through a video competition will travel to St. Paul, MN, where they'll receive a tour of 3M headquarters and meet with a distinguished panel of judges.