초등 STEAM 연구동향 분석

Abstract

This study analyzes the research trends in master’s and doctoral dissertations on elementary STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) published between 2012, when STEAM gained prominence, and 2022. To that end, four research contents were identified. A total of 190 theses were selected for final analysis after searching the “elementary STEAM” keyword in the Korea Education & Research Information Service database. The analysis criteria included thesis characteristics (publishing year, publishing university, and intended degree), research purposes and subjects, and research objects and methods. Research methods involved frequency analysis and cross-tabulation analysis by reviewing the relevant literature and utilizing Excel. The specific conclusions drawn from this study are as follows.
 First, regarding publishing years, 29 theses were published in 2013, 28 in 2017, and 26 each in 2014 and 2015. Regarding publishing universities, the Gyeongin National University of Education took the lead with 47 theses, followed by the Seoul National University of Education (27) and the Busan National University of Education (18). In terms of degrees intended for publication, master’s degrees comprised the majority of publications with 177 theses, while only 13 were doctoral degrees. Second, regarding research purposes, 86 theses were published on influence and effect, 35 on development, 34 on development and application, and 18 on analysis. Concerning subjects, 79 theses focused on science, followed by 38 on STEAM, 29 on arts and sports, 15 on practical studies, and 12 on mathematics. Third, regarding research objects, 145 theses focused on students, 26 on works of literature, and 19 on teachers. In terms of methods, 139 theses employed quantitative research, 32 were literature reviews, and 12 were qualitative research. Based on these findings, future studies should consider subdividing the analysis criteria in terms of research purposes, subjects, and methods.