A Case Study on the Application of a STEAM Education Program for Children in a Community Child Center: Focusing on Creative Problem-Solving and Interpersonal Skills

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to observe the behavior of early grade elementary-school children enrolled in a community child center regarding creative problem-solving and interpersonal skills during the STEAM education program using qualitative research methods.Methods: The 10th STEAM education program was conducted from May to July 2023 at a community child center. With the consent of the participants, six early grade elementary-school children from the community child center were selected. The collected data were investigated to determine qualitative changes in participants’ behavior and thinking. The data were analyzed according to the criteria for creative problemsolving and interpersonal skills.Results: This study classified three stages of change in children while implementing the STEAM education program. In the 1st to 3rd sessions, the results were classified as “Problem-solving through profound exploration and observation” and a “Lack of interest and participation motivation” in creative problem-solving skills, and “Communication lacking consideration” in interpersonal skills. In the 4th to 9th sessions, they were categorized as “Idea presentation through divergent thinking” and “Perseverance toward achieving goals” in creative problem-solving skills and “Decision-making through role allocation” and “Sharing resources and cooperative communication” in interpersonal skills. In the 10th session, they were analyzed as “Effective self-expression and acceptance of others” in interpersonal skills.Conclusion: This study is significant because it supports the development of creative problem-solving and interpersonal skills of children in a community child center through the STEAM education program. This suggests the potential to contribute to the diversity and quality improvement of community childcare programs.