Abstract:

The solutions to some real-world challenges often arise at the intersection of different STEM disciplines, so problem solving, collaboration and adaptation to interdisciplinary research are important skills that should be integrated into modern educational processes. Research shows that it is often difficult for teachers to find suitable real-world examples that enable interdisciplinary learning. As a result, students often lose interest in science and math when they are taught in isolated silos, without connections to overarching concepts and without practical relevance to the real world. Selecting a compelling model that seamlessly connects multiple domains is an important pedagogical challenge.

The pollution spread modeling offers a highly relevant and compelling example of the application of STEM for teaching within framework of Education 4.0 due to its complexity, interdisciplinary nature, and integration of technological advancements. By connecting abstract concepts with real-world applications, lessons become more engaging and relevant, motivating students to learn STEM subjects.

This paper presents a realistic scenario that led to the study of the dispersion of hydrocarbons in the deep sea and describes some of the phenomena encountered. The example describes the research process aimed at understanding these phenomena in order to prevent or reduce the potential consequences of pollution. Understanding of hydrocarbons spreading in the deep water involves biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, computer modeling, engineering and environmental science and encourages collaboration between different STEM fields. The problem under consideration is broken down into smaller parts, each of which is explained using relatively simple principles and modeled using mathematical concepts. Using the mathematical model created, different scenarios can be considered, allowing students to analyze the complex interplay of factors that influence the dispersion of hydrocarbons, promoting the critical thinking and analytical skills that are essential for later professional life.

In addition to the specific example, this article discusses the basic didactic principles that are essential for selecting similar examples with comparable objectives and outlines the methodology for incorporating these examples into the teaching process.

Keywords:

STEM education, interdisciplinarity, pollution spread modeling, hydrocarbon spread modeling, mathematical model.