Why the arts are important for STEM education
You’re probably familiar with the term ‘STEM’ – science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
But have you heard of STEAM?
STEAM is a newer acronym that includes the arts into STEM.
The Arts include humanities, social sciences, language, arts, drama and visual arts and design.
The term STEAM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, math and the arts, was first coined by Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) President John Maeda in 2001.
The inclusion of arts (i.e. STEAM) has been seen as an exciting way to teach children new skills and ideas in these fields of study.
It can be difficult for some people to see the importance of learning about the arts, but the arts are essential in a well-rounded education. This is, in part, because the arts teach children about creativity and expression. They help children to develop their own unique voice, and to think outside the box.
The arts also teach children about teamwork and collaboration. In order to create a work of art, children have to work together and communicate with each other. The arts help children to understand different perspectives and to empathize with others.
The arts are also important for developing critical thinking skills. Children have to be able to analyze and interpret what they see in order to create something new. The arts help children to understand the world around them and to make connections between different concepts.
STEM education is important, but the inclusion of the arts makes STEM education even better!
Why the arts are an important part of STEM education
The arts are important in STEAM education because they teach children important skills that they can use in any field of study.
The arts teach children about creativity and expression. They help children to develop their own unique voice, and to think outside the box.
The arts can also teach children about teamwork and collaboration.
The benefits of including the arts in STEM education
When it comes to STEM education, many people think that the arts should not be included; there is much debate surrounding the inclusion of the Arts. Some state that its inclusion is unnecessary, whilst others believe that the Arts are necessary for a fully integrated curriculum.
The arts can actually provide a number of benefits to students who are studying STEM subjects. For example, the arts can help students to develop their creativity and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the arts can help students to better understand scientific concepts.
According to a recent report by the Primary + STEM team (p. 7),
Those who argue for the inclusion of the Arts believe that the creative thinking approach can be applied to solving real-life problems. Whilst this approach seems sensible, it can be difficult to find teachers who are confident, and well credentialled, to teach STEAM.
How to foster your child’s STEAM curriculum at home
If you’re looking for ways to include the arts in your child’s STEM curriculum at home, here are a few ideas:
- Have your child participate in arts and crafts projects.
- Encourage your child to listen to music or read books that are based on science or math concepts.
- Take your child to see live performances or exhibits of art that are related to science or math.
- Help your child create videos or podcasts about scientific or mathematical concepts.
- Encourage your child to use their imagination when playing with toys or doing other activities.
By including the arts in your child’s STEM education, you can help them to develop a well-rounded understanding of the world around them. Additionally, you may find that your child enjoys learning more and is better able to retain information when the arts are included in their education.
Additional resource
Want to know more about the history of STEAM? Lisa Catterall from The Center for Research on Creativity has written an article ‘A brief history of STEM and STEAM from an inadvertent insider’
Image credit
Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels