At the dawn of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education: prospects, priorities, processes, and problems

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the current state of integrated science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education. We conducted an extensive review of the literature, followed by document analysis to construct concepts and themes associated with prospects, priorities, processes, and problems of STEAM education. The analysis of STEAM learning concepts from the literature provided three sub-constructs under the prospects – STEAM movement, the purpose of STEAM education, and benefits of STEAM education. The sub-constructs under priorities of STEAM education were – curriculum integration in STEAM and STEAM education as a curriculum reform. The sub-constructs of STEAM education as a process were – the pedagogical process and assessment in STEAM education. The sub-constructs of the problems in STEAM education were – critiques against STEAM education and the challenges of STEAM education. Finally, we discussed findings and presented some implications of STEAM education.