Our approach to validating an integrated STEM education innovation through rigorous pilot implementation
FogponicsEDU is designed around principles of project-based learning, integrated STEM education, and hands-on experiential learning. Students engage with real systems, solve authentic problems, and apply knowledge across multiple disciplines.
Students work on an extended, meaningful project that requires sustained inquiry, iteration, and presentation of findings.
Biology, physics, engineering, and computer science are naturally woven together in one cohesive learning experience.
Students build understanding through direct experience with fogponics technology, developing their own mental models.
The project addresses genuine global challenges: water scarcity, food security, and sustainable agriculture.
To what extent does hands-on fogponics education improve student understanding of:
How does hands-on agricultural technology experience affect:
What conditions support successful implementation across:
How does the hands-on nature of the project affect:
Pre/post tests measuring content understanding:
Self-reported measures of:
Teacher observations and reflections on:
Review of:
What we hope to demonstrate through our pilot program
Based on principles of project-based and integrated STEM learning, we anticipate that students may show improvements in content knowledge and increased interest in agricultural technology careers. However, actual outcomes will vary based on implementation context, educator support, and student populations.
We expect that the hands-on, integrated nature of the fogponics project may lead to gains in STEM understanding, particularly in areas related to environmental systems and sustainable agriculture. We also anticipate positive shifts in students' perception of agricultural technology as a career path.
Our diverse pilot sites will help us understand what works where, and why, providing valuable insights for future implementation.
Results may be submitted to peer-reviewed journals in STEM education and presented at relevant academic conferences.
Following validation, curriculum materials may be made available to support broader educational implementation.
We plan to develop training materials and workshops to support educators interested in implementation.
Insights gained will inform future educational innovations in integrated STEM learning.