The Effectiveness of Using Integrated Steam Methods in Teaching Genetics

Abstract

Integrated STEM is considered a new trend of knowledge, complemented by new methods, digital technologies in teaching genetics to modern students. The introduction of integrated STEM methods into the teaching of genetics can become a problem for teachers due to lack of experience. Thus, the purpose of this study is to determine and test the optimality of integrated STEM learning in teaching genetics. The study discusses integrated STEAM training based on mixed methods. The study discusses integrated STEM learning based on mixed methods of Game Based learning (PBL), Problem-based learning (PBL), Creative matrix methods. The study involved 2 groups of students. Each group consisted of experimental and control groups of 23 people. The teaching methodology is organized according to the section "Variability and mutation", which is presented in the syllabus of the discipline 6B01509-Biology 3 course "Fundamentals of genetics and breeding". Students' knowledge was tested by comparing two groups using the Geniventure game, solving genetic problems and a creative matrix. The results showed higher academic performance of students who used integrated STEM learning than the traditional method. Therefore, integrated STEM learning based on Game Based learning (GBL), Problem-based learning (PBL), and creative matrix methods has become an effective method in education and has been able to positively affect the quality and results of student learning.