New Perspectives in Science Education

This paper presents findings from a comprehensive review of a national STEM outreach initiative designed to foster engagement and awareness of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in primary schools [1,2] The study explored the programme’s design, delivery, and impact on learners, teachers, and school communities, as well as its role in promoting high-quality STEM education experiences [3]. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through focus groups with teachers, pupils, parents, and facilitators, alongside a nationwide teacher survey (N=36). Findings indicate that participation in the initiative significantly enhanced teacher confidence in delivering inquiry-based STEM lessons, encouraged whole-school collaboration, and increased children’s awareness of STEM in everyday life and future careers. The programme’s structured framework and professional development supports were identified as key enablers of integrated STEM teaching. However, challenges emerged around workload, evidencing requirements, and the need for updated resources and greater parental involvement. Recommendations include streamlining application processes, expanding professional development opportunities, and strengthening links between schools, industry, and outreach centres [4,5] This review highlights the importance of sustained, inclusive, and contextually relevant STEM outreach in building science capital and supporting national education policy goals [6,7] The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and outreach providers seeking to embed authentic STEM learning experiences in primary education.

Keywords: STEM education, primary schools, outreach, professional development, science capital, inquiry-based learning

REFERENCES

[1] Department of Education and Skills (2017). STEM Education Policy Statement 2017–2026.
[2] Science Foundation Ireland. (2021). Strategy 2025: Shaping Our Future. Dublin: SFI. Available at: https://www.sfi.ie/strategy/SFI-Strategy-2025-Shaping-Our-Future.pdf

[3] Department of Education and Skills. (2017b). STEM Education Implementation Plan 2017–2019. Dublin: DES. Available at: https://assets.gov.ie/43631/194126acae544b93895436013dadbefb.pdf

[4] Laursen, S., Liston, C., Thiry, H., & Graf, J. (2007). What Good Is a Scientist in the Classroom? Participant Outcomes and Program Design Features for a Short-Duration Science Outreach Intervention in K-12 Classrooms. Cell Biology Education, 6(1), 49–64.

[5] Vennix, J., Den Brok, P., & Taconis, R. (2017). Perceptions of STEM-based outreach learning activities in secondary education. Learning Environments Research, 20(1), 21–46. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10984-016-9217-6

[6] Archer, L., DeWitt, J., Osborne, J. et al. (2015). Science capital: A conceptual, methodological, and empirical argument. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 52(7), 922–948.

[7] Bybee, R. W. (2013). The Case for STEM Education: Challenges and Opportunities. NSTA Press.