THE EFFECTIVINESS OF THE STEM APPROACH IN IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LEARNING IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Keywords:
STEM, elementary school learning, learning quality, 21st-century skills, literature review.Abstract
The STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) approach is a relevant learning innnovation in addressing the demands of 21st-century education. This review article aims to examine the effectiveness of implementing the STEM approach in improving the quality of learning elementary schools through an analysis of various previous studies. The method used is a literature review, examining scientific sources in the form of national and international journals related to the implementation of STEM in elementary education. The study results indicate that the STEM approach can improve the quality of learning, as indicated by increased critical thingking skills, creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving skills in students. Furthermor, STEM-based learning can also increase student motivation and active participation through contextual and project-based learning activities. However, several challenges in its implementation exist, such as limited facilities, teacher preparedness, and a lack of ongoing training. Thus, the STEM approach has proven effective in improving the quality of learning in elementary scholls, but requires optimal support from various parties for optimal implementaion.
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