Views of STEM-trained Teachers on STEM Education in Türkiye
Keywords:
STEM teachers,, STEM trained teachers, Teacher views, STEM education.Abstract
STEM education is important because it helps students learn about the world around them and how to solve problems. As enforcers of STEM, STEM-trained teachers have a unique point of view on this subject. This case study aims to reveal the views of STEM-trained teachers about STEM education in Türkiye. For this purpose, 61 teachers who had STEM training and STEM background participated in the study. Data were collected via a questionnaire consisting of multiple-choice and open-ended questions and analyzed with the content analysis procedure of qualitative methods. Results point out that STEM-trained teachers are aware of the interdisciplinary nature of STEM education and value daily life problems in activities. Despite being previously trained, the need expression for practical training on hands-on activities in STEM education is significant. Our suggestions for future research include more precise and activity-based teacher training, financial support on disposable materials and STEM-lab environments, and a cooperative perspective on different branches of teachers of the same school.
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