Melissa Jurkiewicz
Papers
1
Total Citations
26
H-Index
1
About
Melissa Jurkiewicz is a dedicated researcher in K-12 STEM education, with a particular focus on broadening access to computing and engineering through innovative, resource-conscious pedagogies. Her most-cited work, “Unplugged Robotics to Increase K-12 Students’ Engineering Interest and Attitudes” (2018, 26 citations), addresses a critical national priority: making computing education accessible even when schools lack advanced technology or teacher training. By demonstrating how unplugged, hands-on robotics activities can effectively spark engineering interest and improve student attitudes, Jurkiewicz offers a scalable solution to the persistent barriers of limited resources and insufficient professional development. Her research directly tackles the equity gap in STEM, showing that impactful computing education does not always require expensive equipment. Beyond this flagship study, Jurkiewicz’s work continues to explore how to integrate authentic engineering experiences into diverse classroom settings, empowering educators and inspiring the next generation of problem-solvers. Her contributions are vital for educators and policymakers seeking practical, evidence-based strategies to cultivate a more inclusive and skilled STEM workforce.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
- 1