Science Teachers’ Beliefs and Understanding of Stem Education at School Level
Keywords:
Beliefs, Understanding, STEM education, Science teachersAbstract
STEM Education refers to the study of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Teachers think STEM education is crucial for the future success of their students as it is an interdisciplinary approach to learning removes barriers in conventional instruction that divide knowledge of multiple areas and prevent students from coming up with comprehensive solutions to real-world situations. This research paper was designed to know science teachers’ beliefs and understanding of STEM education at school level. To collect data, a questionnaire was used which consisted of 44 items with six factors about teachers’ beliefs and understanding about STEM education. The sample was selected using a simple random sampling technique. 57 teachers of District Jhang responded the questionnaire. Collected data was analyzed using statistical techniques. The objectives of the study were; a) To identify science teachers' current beliefs and understanding towards STEM education. b) To learn about opportunities and obstacles associated with implementing STEM education. c) To evaluate the need for professional development in STEM teaching. d) To ascertain how STEM education will be implemented in classrooms and what effects it will have on students. e) To determine the STEM education's potential future in Pakistan. It was concluded that STEM education helps students develop 21st century skills as well as for better future and there is need of professional developments to better implement STEM education. It was concluded that STEM education is evolving over the next decade. It was concluded that there were lack of resources to implement STEM education. It is recommended that STEM-related teacher trainings should be done. Schools should be reorganized and curriculum needs to be updated to reflect the evolving needs of STEM education. Additionally, the community and school administration should assist teachers in adopting STEM education.
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