A Conceptual Model of Integrated STEM Education in K-12

Abstract

Unlike traditional education experiences in which students' focus on individual subject areas separate from other subject areas, STEM education emphasizes on combining different subject areas in a way that integrates them together, connecting different disciplines together, and relating them to each other practically and coherently. STEM education has become such a global trend that an increasing amount of countries have realized that humanity's future will be built on our capacity for innovation, invention, and creative problem-solving. To implement STEM education in schools, many countries have tried a variety of different strategies. The situation is no different in Hong Kong. There is a distinct lack of a coherent understanding of STEM education and on how to implement STEM courses inside of the curriculums. This paper will establish and propose a framework to provide concrete references and examples to schools in Hong Kong for integrating STEM courses into their curriculums. This article will also discuss a variety of suggestions related to STEM education; including the development and training of educational professionals will be considered.