STEM-Themed Pathways within Elementary Preservice Methods Coursework: Benefits and Challenges Associated with Designing and Implementing Integrated STEM Projects
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| Title: | STEM-Themed Pathways within Elementary Preservice Methods Coursework: Benefits and Challenges Associated with Designing and Implementing Integrated STEM Projects |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Deepika Menon (ORCID |
| Source: | School Science and Mathematics. 2026 126(2):176-188. |
| Availability: | Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 13 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Elementary Education Higher Education Postsecondary Education |
| Descriptors: | STEM Education, Preservice Teacher Education, Preservice Teachers, Methods Courses, Science Projects, Student Projects, Science Teachers, Elementary School Science, Integrated Curriculum, Interdisciplinary Approach, Problem Solving, Practicums |
| DOI: | 10.1111/ssm.18321 |
| ISSN: | 0036-6803 1949-8594 |
| Abstract: | With the rapid advancements in science and technology, there is a growing emphasis on preparing high-quality elementary science teachers with a deeper understanding of integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines into their classrooms. Despite ongoing reform efforts of rethinking ways in which preservice elementary teachers (PSTs) are currently prepared, STEM is not always the central focus of their training programs. This article highlights the STEM pathways threaded throughout the concurrent elementary science, mathematics, and technology methods courses within a dedicated STEM semester. This approach allows PSTs to experience integrated STEM directly. Specifically, we discuss PSTs' planning and implementation of integrated STEM projects that explicitly blend multiple STEM disciplines to design solutions to problems situated within a local context under the theme of sustainability. The practicum experience played a pivotal role in helping PSTs realize the benefits and challenges associated with teaching STEM. Drawing from PSTs' written reflections, we provide evidence of how varied STEM engagements enhance their knowledge of STEM integration and shape their perceptions of successes and challenges associated with STEM teaching. Finally, we offer implications for practice and recommendations for future teacher educators to reshape elementary education programs to better integrate STEM. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1502628 |
| Database: | ERIC |
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