Full reference
Roberts, P. & Knaus, M. (2018). STEM in Early Childhood Education: Using the inquiry approach to scaffold learning. NZ International Research in Early Childhood Education Journal, 21(2), 71-84. Retrieved from https://www.childforum.com/research/2018-issue2-nz-international-research-ece-journal/1652-stem-inquiry-approach-scaffold-learning.html
PDF copies of articles are available for personal use - go to the ChildForum Store page
Original Commentary Paper
© ChildForum
STEM in Early Childhood Education: Using the inquiry approach to scaffold learning
Pauline Roberts & Marianne Knaus
Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
Abstract
STEM education is gaining worldwide attention due to its perceived links with economic growth and prosperity of developed countries. Research also indicates the significance of integrating the four disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics as beneficial in enhancing children’s knowledge, skills and dispositions. Although the focus on these areas is usually targeted at the primary and high school years, this commentary paper argues that not only is it important to start STEM education in early childhood settings but that it is a natural connection. STEM aligns closely with early childhood pedagogy of hands-on exploration and the integration of learning across areas using an inquiry approach. Outlined in this paper are ways that STEM and the inquiry-based process can be successfully implemented into early childhood settings. It also identifies how early childhood educators can perhaps position themselves in the current debate.
Key words: STEM, inquiry-based, pedagogy, maths, science, technology, engineering.
READ MORE
Oops ... you are attempting to view an article or a resource in the member-only area.
To keep reading, you need to login with your membership login 
If this is not one of our 'Educators' or 'Service Provider' articles, then it is most likely a NZ-Int Research in ECE Journal article that can be accessed through a library subscription or a research membership if you are not an educator or service provider.
Not a member? Look below ↓ for the click here button ↓ It will take you to the membership page to sign up and choose your own unique username and password.