STEAM-Inspired Curriculum for Middle School Students: A Case of Stop-Motion Animation Unit

Abstract

The goal of this research project was to develop integrated units of study appropriate for middle-school students. This study has shown that in order for integration to be meaningful and successful, there must be an equal emphasis placed on all components of instruction. For the effective STEAM-inspired instruction, collaboration and communication between all involved teachers were significant. The lesson unit developed as action research feature the collaboration of teachers from a variety of subject areas who naturally aligned their objectives and standards with each other. For example, the Stop-Motion Animation unit was implemented through a collaborative effort between the Computer, Science, and Art Teachers. Each unit also features lessons that cater to different learning styles and that are evaluated by multiple forms of assessment. In addition to the development of practical lessons, the researcher also produced two surveys for colleagues and students to understand the middle school students’ attitudes and interest levels toward the integration of the art into curricula. The survey results indicated a significant interest in arts integration, but also a concern among teachers about the actual implementation of integration practices.