STEAM Integrates Skills for a Richer Educational Experience

Within the past decade or so, a major shift has occurred in schools. Teachers have chosen to implement strategies which bridge the gap between technology (and the sciences) to the rest of education. Silos in education is a simplistic structure that keeps academic subjects compartmentalized and organized, with one subject per class in one set time frame. Desks are set in a row, with one teacher leading the lesson. Modern day learning, however, has allowed for the deconstruction of this safe, orderly method and has linked multiple fields in the classroom. One of the best examples of this inquiry- based learning is STEAM, where the students’ role in the learning process is greatly emphasized and various subjects are interwoven. This has largely allowed learners to think outside the box.

STEAM is the acronym used for the learning approach that integrates the subjects of science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. Together they allow students to explore creative ways to problem solve and collect data. Known as STEM for a long time, the recent addition of the “A” (including the arts) has enhanced the creative portion of learning. STEAM is a philosophy used for learners as young as preschool up through high school and produces learning which resembles real life. An interdisciplinary approach to learning is not a new concept but has recently gained greater popularity. STEAM is about more than just combining subjects together. It incorporates hands-on learning and brings together computer applications, programming, writing, and tangible manipulative use into a single lesson or unit. Students can learn about coding, engineering, planning and design in these specially designed courses. An effective STEAM curriculum sets the goals of having students think critically, evaluate information, and apply their findings in an environment that fosters creativity. As a result, students who partake in STEAM classes can benefit from improved cognitive skills and meaningful experiences.

STEAM learning sets the stage for many professions which require multiple skill sets, along with flexibility and innovation. Architects, for example, will use a combination of math, engineering and art to complete tasks and projects, modeling a STEAM approach. For a single project, an Architect can develop and implement building designs, determine environmental impact, estimate costs and oversee construction procedures. A career in Archaeology also uses a blend of subjects as it has expanded to include an exploration into cultural evolution using technology. Archaeologists examine cultures and languages and combine various information sources to answer research questions. Other STEAM based careers include, but are not limited to, Engineers, Graphic Designers, Pilots, Web Designers and Urban Planners. A STEAM education does the great service of preparing learners for exciting futures that use connective skills. Until then, learners can pursue talents and passions through STEAM as they try new things (in new ways) in our ever-advancing modern society.