Indiana Bridges: Inclusive STEM Learning for Students with Down Syndrome

This research brief explores how materials and the engineering design process may be used to support inclusive STEM learning for students with Down syndrome. Conducted as a series of five consecutive workshops over a summer break, the Indiana Bridges project introduced engineering concepts through bridge-themed sessions created to be accessible for all ages and abilities. Students ages 11-20 with Down syndrome and two teacher education faculty participated in five workshops. Family members and center support staff frequently participated. Bridges from across the state of Indiana and classroom materials familiar to the participants provided entry points while new materials extended their skills over time. The project demonstrated the complementary role of scaffolding as well as aligning with a need for additional research on the impact of Down syndrome with learning in mixed populations.