{"id":40349,"date":"2025-02-03T18:49:31","date_gmt":"2025-02-03T16:49:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/portal.stem.edu.gr\/what-is-stem\/"},"modified":"2025-05-21T09:20:06","modified_gmt":"2025-05-21T06:20:06","slug":"what-is-stem","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/portal.stem.edu.gr\/en\/what-is-stem\/","title":{"rendered":"What is STEM"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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What is STEM<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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An attempt to clarify the term and the approach \n
through relevant examples of scalar complexity.<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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It refers to approaches to education that integrate all four domains interdependently: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, encouraging interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking and problem solving.<\/em><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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What is STEM<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) refers to an interdisciplinary approach to education that integrates science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The aim of this approach is to provide authentic learning experiences that link theory to practice (stemedresearch.siu.edu<\/span><\/a>) <\/p>

From a pedagogical point of view, it promotes learning through the discovery and solution of real problems. This is achieved through the use of engineering design, where students are asked to define problems, develop and test solutions, thus enhancing their understanding and application of their knowledge to real-life scenarios (doe.virginia.gov)<\/span><\/a>. <\/p>

The integration of mathematics and other sciences is seen as critical to the quality of STEM curricula. However, studies have shown that effective integration of these elements can be challenging, indicating the need for ongoing professional development for teachers and careful curriculum design (docs.lib.purdue.edu).<\/a><\/span> <\/p>

According to the guidelines of international organisations such as theNext<\/a> GenerationScience Standards(NGSS, 2013) and UNESCO (2021)<\/a>, STEM education aims to develop critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills through experiential and inquiry-based learning.<\/p>

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STEM education is based on the principle of constructivist learning, where students build knowledge through active engagement in experimental activities. The interdisciplinary approach allows students to develop skills related to computational thinking, mathematical modelling and designing technological solutions. Research shows that participation in STEM activities increases students’ engagement with science and technology, preparing them for the demands of modern society(Bybee, 2013<\/a>). <\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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After completing the activity, students will have an understanding of basic meteorological parameters, such as temperature, humidity, wind and precipitation, and will be able to analyse sensor data, applying physics and mathematics principles. They will construct and calibrate a weather station, programming data collection and analysis with visualized interfaces. <\/p>

At the same time, they will develop scientific thinking skills, collaboration and environmental sensitivity, by linking their measurements to real data and investigating the impact of meteorological phenomena on the environment.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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General examples of STEM activities<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Example 1: Investigating engineering structures<\/h4>

An introductory STEM activity might involve designing and building bridges using simple materials such as cardboard and sticks. Students work together to create models that can withstand different loads, applying engineering and physics principles. This activity promotes collaboration, computational thinking and the ability to analyse data. <\/p>

Example 2: Programming and automation<\/h4>

Students use programming platforms, such as Scratch or Mind+, to create microcontroller-based automation (e.g. Arduino, micro:bit). Through exploratory learning, students develop algorithmic thinking skills and understand the importance of sensors and data in automation. <\/p>

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Learning outcomes<\/strong><\/p>

Based on the Curriculum, STEM activities should incorporate objectives that include:<\/p>