Applying STEM Strategies in the Context of Primary Education in Slovakia

The strategies of education and training in Slovakia have been changed several times in the recent period by reforms to meet the needs of graduates and their best preparation for future education and the needs of the practice. The bases of these reforms are always positive examples from abroad. The concept of STEM teaching, which is based on the integration of the sciences and promotes critical and technical thinking in children and pupils in line with the needs of the labour market, is becoming increasingly popular. The main aim of this study is to highlight the results of pilot research on the current state of implementation of STEM strategies in primary education in Slovakia. Teachers are uninformed about this concept but frequently apply some strategies. Teachers mainly apply hands-on activities with materials, and they least apply educational robotics. Teachers perceive a lack of awareness as the most significant barrier hindering them in implementing STEM education. Teachers who have already tried or incorporated the concept into their education confirmed its positive impact on their professional development. The pilot research was carried out within the VEGA project 1/0213/23 Developing the learning potential of preschool and younger school-age children in focus on the concept of STEM education.