Abstract
This research brief presents Renewable Energy Innovation (REI) as a mathematics-driven Integrated STEM (iSTEM) approach for engaging upper elementary and middle school students to design, analyze, test, and refine solar cars and wind turbines through mathematical modeling (MM) and problem solving (PS). Research suggests that renewable energy activities support students’ abilities to design systems, quantify variables, construct multiple representations, and refine mathematical models to clarify relationships between energy output and design features. Positioning mathematics as the driver in REI iSTEM engineering design contexts aligns with the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and foregrounds mathematics as a primary organizing discipline in iSTEM, rather than a supporting tool.
Document Type
Brief
DOI
10.5703/1288284318510
Recommended Citation
Ochulor, Humphrey Chinenye and Hidayat, Dayat, "Renewable Energy Innovation: A Mathematics-Driven Integrated STEM Approach for K-12 Classrooms" (2026). Indiana STEM Education Conference. 11.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/instemed/2026/briefs/11
Included in
Engineering Education Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons, Science and Technology Studies Commons
Renewable Energy Innovation: A Mathematics-Driven Integrated STEM Approach for K-12 Classrooms
This research brief presents Renewable Energy Innovation (REI) as a mathematics-driven Integrated STEM (iSTEM) approach for engaging upper elementary and middle school students to design, analyze, test, and refine solar cars and wind turbines through mathematical modeling (MM) and problem solving (PS). Research suggests that renewable energy activities support students’ abilities to design systems, quantify variables, construct multiple representations, and refine mathematical models to clarify relationships between energy output and design features. Positioning mathematics as the driver in REI iSTEM engineering design contexts aligns with the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics and foregrounds mathematics as a primary organizing discipline in iSTEM, rather than a supporting tool.