The effects of Science Engineering Mathematics Aerospace Academy (SEMAA) participation on engagement rates of sixth- and seventh-grade students in regular mathematics classes

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of participation in a short-term, co-curricular, mathematics and science program (Science Engineering Mathematics Aerospace Academy, SEMAA) on the engagement rates of sixth and seventh grade students in public school mathematics classes. The outcome variable (engagement) was measured with the Student Record of Behavior at three time intervals. A 22.3 mixed ANOVA design was utilized to investigate three main effects (participation, grade level, and time) and their primary and secondary interactions. Results reflected no discernable impact of the SEMAA program on student engagement rates. Conclusions include alignment of ancillary programs and the principle programs they support and utilization of ancillary support programs for staff development. Broadened samples, settings, and variables in further study are recommended.