Should Makers Be The Engineers Of The Future?

这个工程教育研究项目旨在调查流行的制造商运动和工程职业之间的一致性。 研究人员计划开发模型，说明以创客运动为代表的业余爱好者社区如何找到进入工程学位课程的途径。 所提出的方法使用定性数据收集和理论基础上如何成人学习者导航的职业道路。更广泛的意义和重要性，这个项目产生于当前强调创造更多的STEM毕业生。 该项目专门研究工程学位课程的替代途径，这些课程可能由目前在工程领域代表性不足的人参加。 该项目与NSF的战略目标重叠，即通过准备一支具有新能力和专业知识的工程队伍来改变前沿。 此外，NSF通过支持创新学习系统的发展，实现了为社会创新的目标。

This engineering education research project seeks to investigate the alignment between the popular Maker movement and engineering careers. The researchers plan to develop models of how those involved in the hobbyist community, as represented by the Maker movement, find their ways into engineering degree programs. The proposed approach uses qualitative data collection and theories grounded in how adult learners navigate career pathways.The broader significance and importance of this project arises from the current emphasis on creating more STEM graduates. The project specifically investigates alternative pathways into engineering degree programs which may be taken by those currently under-represented in engineering. This project overlaps with NSF's strategic goals of transforming the frontiers through preparation of an engineering workforce with new capabilities and expertise. Additionally NSF's goal of innovating for society is enabled by supporting the development of innovative learning systems.