STEM/STEAM Art

A common practice for schools to integrate content and support explorational learning is STEM. This practice has been taken a step further to include artistic expression based on prior learning and experiences. With this incorporation we now have, STEAM.

In STEM/STEAM learning, it is a misconception that technology refers to digital technology such as computers. When we say technology for children, we are considering the tools that go into completing a project! Including measuring tools, calculators, etc.. The most important aspects of teaching STEAM is to have frequent, hands-on experience with concrete materials for children to investigate with the scientific method. We can apply the terms from science learning into the arts through dance, creation, and music! The Kennedy Space Center comments on the subtle similarities between science, arts, and math. When looking where/how to integrate art into these activities… Look for the similarities in the standards for your state!

Video research has shown schools finding great success with student engagement and learning. There are trainings and methods that can assist with beginning using STEM/STEAM learning in your school! The Kennedy Space Center’s webpage (https://www.kennedy-center.org/education/resources-for-educators/classroom-resources/articles-and-how-tos/articles/educators/advocacy/growing-from-stem-to-steam) goes into detail about the key differences between STEM and STEAM. And what modifications to art or science activities can help tie in and integrate knowledge across the board!

There are several other pages to help educators get started teaching using with STEAM! Pinterest has options and boards available to help you learn some ideas. The Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM (https://artsintegration.com/what-is-steam-education-in-k-12-schools/) focuses on the importance of using this integrated approach to support problem solving and life-long learning. They state that traditional learning does not provide enough skills and critical thinking for children to learn the skills that they need to thrive in a modern workforce. They share the research that supports the practice, stating that research has shown STEAM teaching improves literacy, science achievement, math, reflection, and social skills. Alike the Kennedy Space Center article, it also compares STEM and STEAM. The Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM is a rich resource for learning the differences, applying methods, and getting support with the integration.

The Kennedy Soace Center webpage provides the overall idea and core principles of STEAM. There are a few ideas presented on their page for beginning integration ideas. Similar to looking on Pinterest boards for STEAM activities to use in your classroom, PBS Iowa (https://www.iowapbs.org/education/resources/collection/7400/steam-activities) has a webpage provides detailed outlines of free or low cost STEAM activities that can be used at home or in a classroom! They have outlined the resources and materials needed to complete these activities and is a great resource overall for getting ideas on how to begin using STEAM learning.

The information provided from these resources can be used to create lessons and activities that support STEAM learning. By studying the practices and generating ideas, I can use these resources to support my students as can you! Key ideas of STEAM are connecting science, math, and arts through hands-on activities that require problem solving, peer work, and experimentation or exploration. The Kennedy Space Center article shares that one idea for arts integration into the STEM process is to use art as a way to assess student understanding of concepts, which is valuable knowledge. I look forward to using this practice in my classroom to create curious, life-long learners.