Barron Associates Completes Classroom Evaluation for the NeuroSPARKS system

Barron Associates has developed NeuroSPARKS system, which provides STEM content to middle school students through science lessons and a unique electromyography (EMG) game interface. The goal of the NeuroSPARKS system is to increase interest in STEM careers in a diverse group of students. The game software was designed to ensure that lessons are engaging and relevant to students from under-represented groups by including them in game development through a participatory design process. The NeuroSPARKS software and hardware components were verified in classroom testing with 39 middle school students from Charlottesville-area schools and education programs. The classroom testing demonstrated a significant increase in science knowledge questionnaire scores following the NeuroSPARKS sessions, and students gave a positive usability rating to the game system. In September, the NeuroSPARKS game was recognized with the 2022 Tech and Learning Award for Excellence for its potential to support STEM learning in schools.