Factors influencing children's learning through their interest in STEM areas
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37636/Keywords:
STEM, Critical factors, Basic education, Science and Technology, Children learningAbstract
This work explores the factors and indicators that influence the interest and motivation of children to pursue Science, Technology, and Mathematics (STEM) in basic education. The STEM interest, through the dimensions of Hands-on and Playful Learning, Technologies and Scientific Skills, Vocational Motivation towards Engineering, Creativity and Visual Learning, Adult Support and Guidance, and Curiosity and Motivation for discovery, was evaluated using data from a survey instrument administered to 165 elementary school children. Results showed that children exhibit enhanced interest in dynamic activities and technological devices, and highlight the relevance of factors such as family support and the practical experience in STEM skill development. These findings suggest the necessity of specific educational curricula in order to increase STEM interest from an early age, with targeted interventions to obtain better STEM competencies at the basic education stage.
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