Abstract:

The implementation of the STEM approach in elementary school involves integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into the learning process, with a focus on real-world problems, creative thinking, and problem-solving.

This article examines characteristic features and key aspects of applying the STEM approach in primary school, which include:
- Integrated Learning: The STEM approach merges scientific disciplines (science and mathematics) with technology and engineering. Projects and learning assignments incorporate elements from all these areas to promote a comprehensive understanding of the topics.
- Hands-on Learning: STEM emphasizes hands-on learning, where students engage in projects and experiments that present real problems to solve. This provides them with the opportunity to apply scientific knowledge in practical settings.
- Real-world Problems: STEM involves working with real problems and scenarios that demand creative thinking and innovative solutions. Students are encouraged to explore, experiment, and seek solutions to problems with practical applications.
- Skills Development: Through STEM, students develop not only knowledge in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, but also critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and technological literacy.
- Stimulating Innovation: Creativity and innovation are fostered through the STEM approach. Students are encouraged to express their ideas and experiment with various problem-solving approaches, stimulating creativity and innovation.
- Accessibility: STEM aims for greater accessibility and inclusion of all students in the educational process, facilitating the participation of students of all abilities and interests.

The article describes scenarios and methodological guidelines for applying the STEM approach in primary school education, offering examples for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades.

To spark elementary school students' interest in STEM, it is important to choose age-appropriate topics that can be implemented with engaging activities. A major implementation approach is project-based learning.

For each grade level, suitable topics are proposed for developing and implementing STEM projects. Detailed STEM projects are presented, integrating knowledge from various fields such as mathematics, language, visual arts, entrepreneurship, and information technology. The competencies aimed to be developed with each project implementation are described.

The presented projects are tailored to the interests and skills of students in different age groups: first grade (7-8 years), second grade (8-9 years), third grade (9-10 years), and fourth grade (10-11 years).

Conclusions drawn from the article have implications for pedagogical practice.

Keywords:

Stem, interdisciplinary approach, project-based learning, key competences, primary school.