Influence of Design Thinking in Integrated STEAM Inquiry-Based Learning on Primary School Students' Empathy and Confidence

Abstract

This study explores the impact of integrating design thinking into STEAM inquiry-based lessons on the development of empathy and confidence among primary school students. Students of grade 5 from a school for the underprivileged were taught integrated STEAM through inquiry-based design challenges for three months. This study focuses on the potential of the Design Thinking process within STEAM to enhance empathy and confidence among students. They exhibited high collaboration levels, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities. The design thinking process fostered empathy by making students consider user perspectives. The implications highlight the importance of explicitly teaching empathy and providing real-world examples during the design thinking process to help students understand and prioritize human needs. This dynamic approach transforms learning, making it engaging, relevant, and reflective of the real world. Design thinking in integrated STEAM lessons is a promising approach to enhancing empathy, confidence, and problem-solving skills in primary school students.