PRInK: Environmental virtual interactive based education and learning model for STEM motivation

Abstract

AbstractPollution from quarry activities has a substantial environmental impact on many countries. This issue should be addressed accordingly as its impact may introduce various health-related problems to the surrounding community. One alternative is to increase awareness for the younger generation and society at large. However, environmental data modelling, specifically on quarry activities, has thus far targeted engineers and professionals, not school children, such as for knowledge exploration or learning material. At the same time, the number of students enrolling in STEM courses is continuously declining. Hence, this research aims to develop the environmental virtual interactive based education and learning model called PRInK to foster STEM education. Five components of the proposed model were identified: a) Computer-Assisted Learning; b) Motivation Level; c) Green Environmental Data; d) Learning Outcome; and e) Problem Context. The actual environmental scientific data were used in the simulation and visualisation. Experts in these fields verified the components. The result of the analysis reveals 17 groups of elements, which were further categorised into 58 sub-elements. The model then was validated through prototype development and users validation. The testing and validation of the prototype were carried out on secondary school children, with the results proving the usability and practicality of the model and showed the increased STEM motivation and interest. The PRInK model and the prototype increase society’s awareness about environmental issues starting from school, increase STEM interest and improve the overall quality of life through a shared understanding for future generations.