The document discusses research into social media conversations about technology and engineering education in K-12. The research aims to identify where discussions about engineering education occur on social media and pilot a new tool to analyze these discussions. The goal is to build support for focusing K-12 technology education on engineering. Mapping conversations could provide opportunities to inform the public and engage them in important discussions about engineering education policy.

1. Social Media Venues for Conversations about Technology and Engineering Education in K-12Natasha PerovaSocial Internet04/26/11

2. Topic Overview and Its Relevance

4. Research Goals Research Purpose: To build an argument for technology education in K-12 to focus on engineeringUsing existing literature review public perceptions of engineering in K-12Pilot new data monitoring tool for analysis of social media channels used for general public discussion about engineering educationResearch Question: Where do conversations about Engineering Education in K-12 happen in the landscape of social media?

5. Social Media Venues for Conversations about Engineering Ed

6. Global Map of Conversations About Engineering Ed in K-12

7. Global Map of Conversations About Engineering Ed in K-12 Cont’d

8. Importance and Relevance of ResultsOpportunities for new outlets to:Connect with general publicProvide important information about the topic Engage people in central conversations about engineering education and technological literacyNew method for online data aggregation, analysis and large scale investigations of important trendsData valuable for educational researchers and policy makers