The impact of STEAM (STEM + arts) activities on learning outcomes in students with specific learning disabilities

Abstract

The aim of this research is to examine the effect of STEAM (STEM + Arts) education, which is an interdisciplinary approach that has been frequently used in developed countries in recent years, on the science course learning outcomes of students with specific learning disabilities. The model of the research was structured as a mixed design and was realized with an explanatory sequential design. In this context, the research took place in two separate interactive stages. In the first stage, a quantitative method was applied. In this section, a one-group pretest–posttest pre-experimental model was used. The research was carried out with 4 students who were studying in a state primary school in a province in the Southern Region of Anatolia and who were diagnosed with specific learning disabilities. As data collection tools, an academic achievement test and STEAM process rubric were used. Means and standard deviations were used in the analysis of the data collected from the pretest, posttest, persistence test and rubrics. In the qualitative section of the study, interviews were conducted with the participants in order to evaluate STEAM education in the light of the quantitative stage, and diaries were kept for the participants in the context of a more in-depth and objective examination of the process. The data collected by qualitative data tools were subjected to content analysis and direct quotations were made from the opinions and diaries of the participants. As a result of the research, it was determined that the quantitative findings overlapped with the qualitative findings. It was observed that the STEAM activities increased the academic success of the participants, that their motivation was high, and that they were curious and eager for the activities. In addition, it was revealed that they made an effort to use the knowledge and experience they had gained from the STEAM activities in other courses.