New Perspectives in Science Education
nanoSTEM & nanoLAB: Rethinking Primary Science Education through Hands-On Nanoscience
Ivan Zunac, Elementary School Petrijevci (Croatia)
Abstract
The nanoSTEM project (https://oisuncokret.hr/home/odred-izvidaca-suncokret-cepin/nanostem/) introduces innovative pedagogical perspectives to primary science education by integrating fundamental nanotechnology principles through scalable, hands-on workshops that foster inquiry-based learning, critical thinking, and foundational STEM competencies. The overarching framework effectively adapts complex scientific concepts for young learners via empirical experiments, collaborative inquiry, and direct connections to real-world technological applications. At Elementary School Petrijevci in Croatia, three exemplary workshops illustrate this methodology: "nanoSpark: Exploring Electric Current Magic" for 4th-grade students tests materials for conductivity while constructing functional electric circuits; "nanoMaps of Stellar Wonders" for 2nd-grade students guides the creation of precise celestial maps, enhancing spatial precision and astronomical inquiry; and "nanoLAB" for 5th-grade students explores the lotus effect, water repellency, and nanostructures through hands-on experiments with everyday materials to observe structural material transformations. Empirical evaluation involving over 100 student participants demonstrates significant gains in concept retention, spatial awareness, and overall engagement, showing an improvement exceeding 80% on pre- and post-test assessments. These findings strongly affirm nanoSTEM's instructional effectiveness and its potential for seamless integration into European primary science curricula. The poster showcases the complete framework alongside vibrant activity photographs, quantitative learning metrics, QR codes linking to open-access digital resources, and interactive sample materials.
Keywords: Science Pedagogy, STEM Didactics, Empirical Evaluation, Early Learning, Educational Innovation, Active Learning
REFERENCES
[1] nanoSTEM project website: (2026). https://oisuncokret.hr/home/odred-izvidaca-suncokret-cepin/nanostem/
[2] Department of Physics, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek: (2026). https://www.fizika.unios.hr/nanostem/
[3] Elementary School Petrijevci – nanoSTEM activities (2026). https://os-petrijevci.skole.hr/projekt-nanostem-nova-prilika-za-povezivanje-sa-znanoscu/
