Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Education: A report on how students at the primary school engage in STEM education lessons

Abstract

STEM stands for Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics. It is a method of education where in the subjects are taught in coherence instead of in isolation. This research report investigates the strategies used in teaching STEM education lessons and the impacts it has on students. STEM education is a subject which focuses on actions that lifts foundational skills in STEM learning areas, and develops mathematical, scientific and technological literacy for students involved. It also promotes the development of the 21st century skills of problem solving, critical analysis and creative thinking. This case study is inspired by reasons that STEM is being studied as separate subjects in Papua New Guinean (PNG) schools. Also, it is yet to be formally incorporated to PNG’s education system and curriculum. This case study used Arts Based Research (ABR) during data collection because ABR is a creative research approach which enables researchers to gather data through observation, interviews and/or questionnaires and analysis of first-hand information from participants. The findings indicate that students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills are enhanced through STEM education because of the hands-on approach and the practical pedagogy involved in facilitating STEM lessons using Lego sets from suppliers like the young engineers in Australia.