An Educator's Guide to Steam: Engaging Students Using Real-world Problems in the Digital Age

This practical book will help readers understand what STEAM is, how it differs from STEM, and how it can be used to engage students in K–8 classrooms.

Readers will find easy-to-understand examples of what STEAM education looks like in a variety of classrooms and will hear from teachers, instructional coaches, principals, and administrators about what it takes to ensure that STEAM is a schoolwide success. Each chapter of this popular text incorporates elements of connected learning―a type of learning that draws on students’ interests that teachers can capitalize on when using STEAM to address real-world problems.

This updated and expanded edition is essential reading for teachers who want to keep pace with fast-moving technological advancements and honor their students’ interests and cultures. The authors provide updated problem-solving scenarios to assist with STEAM curriculum design; additional information on AI-powered tools, with guidance for effective implementation; attention to current topics in science such as climate change, cybersecurity, and the ethical implications of AI; and lesson plans and activities to enhance the guide’s practical application in today’s classrooms.

Book Features:

• A practical teaching guide that uses classroom scenarios relevant to today’s students.
• A conceptual model with specific strategies, such as problem-based learning, student choice, technology integration, and teacher facilitation.
• Updated with an increased focus on emerging technologies, culturally relevant strategies, and lessons from classrooms.
• Materials to support authentic assessment such as rubrics, STEAM units, and formative assessment examples.

Cassie F. Quigley is a professor of science education at the University of Pittsburgh. Danielle Herro is a professor of learning sciences at Clemson University.