ERIC Number: EJ1389033
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1350-293X
EISSN: EISSN-1752-1807
Available Date: N/A
My World of Machines: An Integrated STEM Education Curriculum for Early Childhood Teachers
European Early Childhood Education Research Journal, v31 n3 p470-487 2023
Early childhood years were believed to be a precious time to implement Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education activities. Children can practice STEM-related skills and form their initial ideas about STEM professions. In this research, we aim to present an integrated STEM education curriculum for early childhood teachers, based on an engineering theme. We collected qualitative data through teachers' self-evaluation forms and reflective journals. Seven teachers implemented the curriculum with the participation of 105 children. Teachers mostly expected improvement in cognitive process outcomes before the implementation. Children's first reactions to the curriculum were curiosity and excitement. Cognitive process and social product outcomes were detailed and varied during and after the implementation of the curriculum. Teachers collaborated with their colleagues to plan and overcome the difficulties they encountered. The presented curriculum was found to be appropriate for implementation in early childhood settings. Further research was suggested to focus on the impact of the curriculum on children's skills.
Descriptors: STEM Education, Early Childhood Teachers, Early Childhood Education, Integrated Curriculum, Cognitive Processes, Student Improvement, Outcomes of Education, Teacher Collaboration, Teacher Attitudes, Curriculum Implementation, Preschool Children, Foreign Countries
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Early Childhood Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Turkey
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A