STEM as Integration-Maximising Learning Opportunities

This chapter will outline the history, theories and approaches pertaining to the notion of integrated learning, before providing an overview of different types of integrated STEM education. Comparisons and connections will be made between various notions of integration including Kelley and Knowles’ four-pulley conceptual framework, Bybee’s nine perspectives of STEM, Nadelson and Seifert’s STEM Continuum and Vasquez’s four forms of STEM integration. This will provide the reader with a deep understanding of the levels and approaches to STEM integration. The role and confusion relating to the inclusion of the T (technology) in the STEM acronym will be provided. The benefits of STEM integration for teachers and learners will be outlined, followed by the key challenges of implementation. Prior to the conclusion is recommendations for future research.