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Chapter 36
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-5225-1624-8.ch036
ABSTRACT
In an attempt to foster inquiry-oriented learning in middle grades (grades 6 – 8), a technology medi-
ated pedagogy integrating science and mathematics was promoted through Project SMILE (Science
and Mathematics Integration for Literacy Enhancement). It involved in-service teachers in professional
learning and classroom implementation over a period of two academic years, with the explicit goal of
enhancing teachers’ ability to foster more authentic inquiry in their classes. This chapter describes the
design of Project SMILE in the context of recent reform eforts in science and mathematics education,
along with the theoretical underpinnings for the design. Project activities, followed by the research meth-
odology employed to investigate the impact on both teachers and students are described next. Finally,
research results and their implications are discussed with an eye toward the usefulness of integrating
science and mathematics and involving specifc technological tools to foster greater inquiry-oriented
learning in school science and mathematics.
STEM Learning in Middle
Grades by Technology-
Mediated Integration of
Science and Mathematics:
Results of Project SMILE
Pradeep Maxwell Dass
Northern Arizona University, USA
John T. Spagnolo
Appalachian State University, USA