Designing a Process to Prevent Apple’s Browning: A STEM Activity

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to present an activity based on integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics [STEM] approach, its implication, steps, and necessary documents. The activity started with a daily-life problem stated in the STEM literature. Later, activity worksheets were provided. Learners were asked to design a process to prevent or slow down apple’s browning reaction. After the first designing step, groups’ preventing processes were compared by the use of a rubric prepared previously. Then, groups were given a chance to re-design preventing apple’s browning process. Finally, in light of the rubric, the most successful preventing process was determined. The activity can be used both in high school chemistry and biology courses. Teachers who implemented the activity stated that the participating learners enjoyed the lesson and came up with interesting ideas. Furthermore, they stated that the activity does not necessitate expensive materials, and can easily be applied.