Student Engagement in Oregon

Fifth-grade teacher Mark Gullickson uses the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Sets to teach science, math, and basic engineering classes at Central Elementary School. He finds that when LEGO^® Education products are used in the classroom, student interest and engagement go up immediately. Because there is a high interest level, using the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Sets has been a great way to engage reluctant learners. The sets help students stay especially interested in math and science, which helps grow and maintain academic performance of the students. In fact, 90 percent of the students in Mark’s classroom have either met or exceeded Oregon math and science test standards. “I contribute part of my students’ strong academic success to the hands-on, project-based learning opportunities that the LEGO Education system for learning has provided for them.”

            Not only does Mark find the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Sets helpful in the classroom, he also uses them to help his FIRST^® LEGO League (FLL) teams develop an understanding of basic math and engineering principles. Combined with the Renewable Energy Add-on Set, these materials help FLL teams to develop a basic foundation for designing and building with LEGO gears, beams, pins, and bushings.

            Whether using the Simple and Motorized Mechanisms Set in the classroom or through competitions, Mark finds that students are more likely to be engaged and feel more confident and proud of their individual successes.