New Perspectives in Science Education
Best Practices in STEM Education: Using Active Learning and Novel Teaching Methodologies for Sustainable and Innovative Education
Miltiadis Lytras, The American College of Greece (Greece)
Christina Marouli, The American College of Greece (Greece)
Vivi Papadopoulou, The American College of Greece (Greece)
Abstract
In our days there is a critical debate for the effectiveness of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Curricula and their revision based on flexible active learning didactical approaches. From various sources, it is evident that there is a critical gap in the perception of students and academic directors for the need of STEM education. In our research word we provide a methodological approach that communicates some critical actions required for the integration of STEM Curricula in modern academic programs.
The core knowledge in STEM curricula requires a detailed analysis of effective didactics and teaching methods. The current problems in the effectiveness of teaching in STEM Curricula are related to the diffusion of the learning content and the facilitation of an active learning environment. A detailed desktop literature research provides the input of our methodological approach. We analysed the literature related to gaps in STEM Education, teaching performance and we informed a research model comprising of critical success factors. These were used in a meta-analysis through a qualitative research facilitated with interviews of STEM Professors from 14 countries. The basic focus of our analysis is the role of Active Learning, Technology enabled teaching Methodologies and Social Networks as a key response to the need for effective STEM Education.
The main findings are related to design guidelines for New STEM Education programs, Technology Related Success Factors and Active Learning Strategies. The integrative approach of Active Learning, Technology driven learning innovation and Teaching Strategies for Stem is inevitable for the next generation STEM education, where critical Learning Objectives should be reconsidered and integrated with Portfolios management of students.
Our research also provides critical guidelines for Program Directors of Colleges and Universities for reconsidering the priorities. One of our key conclusion is that investment in STEM education is a key response in order to foster Innovation and Sustainability.
