Examine In-Service Teachers’ Initial Perceptions Toward STEM Education in Thailand

Abstract

This research aims to examine teacher’s initial perceptions of STEM Education. The participants in this study were 43 in-service STEM related subject teachers from the northeastern region in Thailand who were keen on participating in the STEM Education for Educators Module, Khon Kaen University. The data was collected through an open-ended questionnaire of Teacher’s Perceptions of STEM Education (TP-STEM) prior to the process of professional development beginning. The aspects of TP-STEM included (1) STEM concept; (2) Experience implementing STEM; (3) STEM PK; (4) Teacher’ competency for STEM education; (5) Assessment in STEM education; (6) Supporting STEM education in schools; and (7) Research in STEM education. An interpretative paradigm was implemented as a methodology to interpret qualitative data in this research. Research findings were discussed around seven aspects of teacher’s perceptions of STEM education according to the TPSTEM questionnaire. The findings reveal that teacher’s perceptions of the STEM concept goes around the term integrated STEM disciplines. Surprisingly, the majority of teachers had never implemented STEM education in their teaching and a number of teachers tend to separate STEM teaching into each discipline rather than link the disciplines for problem solving. Key PK in STEM education was emphasised on practicing, active learning, and integrated disciplines. Teacher’s indicated PK (PK) as the most significant competency for STEM education, whereas partnership was also considered as a competency to support successful STEM implementation. Authentic assessment and formative assessment were emphasised as key features for assessment in STEM education. Teachers indicated good organisation and support from schools on resources, policy, and professional development for successful STEM implementation. Also, enhancing student’s skills, and innovation were indicated as a focus for STEM education research. These findings could explicitly indicate the trail for professional development (PD) provided that teacher’s ideas about STEM education are related closely to the STEM philosophy from the basic background to implications for a more efficient outcome for implementing STEM education in schools. Moreover, there were indications of the need for support from the Ministry of Education, school administrations, and experts from universities in order to produce effective STEM Education in Thailand. The paper has implications for STEM education professional development not only in Thailand but also for Asia Pacific countries.