A Framework for Implementing an Engineering-Focused STEM Curriculum

Abstract

Integrated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curricula have taken center stage in the recent education reforms. However, the challenge in teaching STEM curricula lies in finding ways to develop students’ content knowledge and plan suitable learning activities and instructional strategies. This paper is focused on the implementation of STEM curricula by secondary technology and engineering teachers and presents a framework for implementing a STEM curriculum centered on engineering design while illuminating its components, such as curriculum theme, content knowledge, learning activities, and teaching strategies. As an effective STEM teaching strategy relies on content integration, the focal point of this framework is the use of learning activities, such as “inquiry and experiment” and “design and making,” to integrate STEM content into lessons and help students develop core competencies through engineering design processes. This paper is meant to serve as a reference for technology and engineering educators to use when designing and implementing engineering-oriented STEM curricula, thereby providing a deeper learning experience of engineering design and STEM integration in secondary-school classrooms.