The Power of Empathy in STEM Education: An Analysis of a Human-Centered Approach to Problem Solving

• In Event: 33.027 - Powerful Practices in Science Teaching

Abstract

This paper seeks to extend our understanding of how empathy might be integrated into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education. This paper reports on how empathy manifested as K-12 STEM teachers learned and implemented one particular framework for problem solving called design thinking. Design thinking is a human-centered approach to problem solving that requires empathy or a deep understanding of people’s needs and desires. Empathy played a critical role in the types of instructional activities teachers designed for students. The benefits and challenges of incorporating empathy into STEM education are also addressed. Findings revealed insights about the potential importance of empathy in STEM education and the role of professional development in helping teachers integrate empathy into instruction.

Author

• Kathy Liu Sun, Santa Clara University