Linking Technology and Data Literacy with a Low-cost Experiment Approach for K-12 STEM Education

Global challenges like climate change emphasize the need for technological literacy in today's society. Additionally, as technologies such as artificial intelligence advance, data literacy becomes increasingly important. However, these competencies are often not systematically promoted in general education. This paper therefore explores the intersection of technology and engineering literacy with data literacy in the context of STEM education, focusing on the school subject Science and Technology (S&T) in Germany. It addresses the need for innovative educational approaches to integrate these competencies, using electric drive technology as an exemplary technical area. It proposes an interdisciplinary experiment to interconnect competency domains and aligns with facets of the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association's standards. To bridge the gap between educational plans and innovative concepts, this paper introduces a low-cost, 3D-printed electric motor test bench for K-12 students, promoting technology literacy and data literacy. This tool allows students to create their own product and use it for experiments, what should foster motivation and engagement. The test bench includes sensors for recording speed, torque, voltage, and current, facilitating the collection of motor characteristic curve data. These measurements are processed by a microcontroller and can be transferred to spreadsheet programs for analysis. Moreover, no-code or low-code data analysis tools like Orange3 extend the possibilities of data evaluation. The presented low-cost electric motor test bench is one example toward enhancing technology and data literacy in K-12 education. By linking established curricula with future-relevant competencies, it empowers students to engage with real-world challenges and develop essential skills for the future and adds value to the global dialogue on how to positively contribute to the advancement of engineering education.