To define STEAM Education you must do research to become informed. With research done by you, and published by others, one can begin to define STEAM Education. Each one of us can define STEAM Education as we understand it, and as we see it best, to be applied to our current educational needs. While the foundation of STEAM Education must be defined by its five strands (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics), the definition for that which is constructed upon this foundation is entirely up to each one of us: how we view STEAM Education, what is our vision, what can we achieve, how do we reach it.
To help with the defining of STEAM Education we take a look at three styles: Linear, Cyclical, and Linear-Cyclical. Linear STEAM Education can be defined as a set sequential curriculum which requires the learner to successfully complete a defined subject prior to proceeding to the next one. This style requires that the faculty be specialized in a specific set of sequences withing the curriculum. Cyclical STEAM Education can be defined as a complete set of ongoing standards which the learner is achieving constantly as they grow with the help of the faculty as a whole. Linear-Cyclical STEAM Education can be defined as a paced curriculum with a set of standards to be acquired with the help of the faculty over a defined period of time.
These three STEAM Education styles can be of help to us in our research to understand the definition of STEAM Education. They can help us visualize the framework of a path that leads today's learner toward tomorrow's education. We can begin to see the many different pieces of STEAM Education which are available to us, and how to customize them so they help us create a concrete realization of our vision. As STEAM Educators part of our job is to define and publish it for others to research, while also been engaged with them through open argumentation.
Author: Manuel R. CortezRodas - Educator
