DIGITAL LIBRARY
SUPPORTING GIFTED STUDENTS THROUGH INTERDISCIPLINARY STEAM EXPLORATION: THE STEAMSMART EDUCATIONAL MODEL
1 Italian Association for Gifted and Talented Students (ITALY)
2 University of Genova (ITALY)
About this paper:
Appears in: EDULEARN26 Proceedings
Publication year: 2026
Article: 1572
ISBN: 978-84-09-88444-5
ISSN: 2340-1117
doi: 10.21125/edulearn.2026.1572
Conference name: 18th International Conference on Education and New Learning Technologies
Dates: 29 June-1 July, 2026
Location: Palma, Spain
Abstract:
The STEAMSMART project is an interdisciplinary educational initiative designed to support the development of gifted students aged 11–15 through hands-on scientific exploration and creative experimentation. The program currently involves 20 students (60% male, 40% female) and integrates physics, mathematics, artificial intelligence, complex systems, and artistic expression within a structured STEAM framework.

A key objective of the project is to create an educational environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and advanced cognitive engagement, while providing appropriate psychological and pedagogical support for gifted learners. Activities include collaborative project development, computational experiments, and the creation of technological and artistic artefacts.

The program is supported by ongoing observation and monitoring of student progress, with a focus on cognitive development, engagement, collaboration, and motivation. The presence of a psychologist specialising in gifted education ensures that students receive appropriate guidance and that learning activities remain aligned with their developmental needs.

Preliminary observations indicate high levels of engagement, creativity, and collaborative problem-solving among participants. The STEAMSMART framework aims to provide a replicable educational model that combines advanced STEM exploration with psychological support for gifted learners.
Keywords:
Gifted Education, STEAM Education, Talent Development, Student Motivation, Experiential Learning, Educational Psychology, Interdisciplinary Learning, Secondary Education.