STEAM as a Social Practice: Art of Insects and Zoom

• In Event: Science Teaching and Learning: Informal and Out-of-School Science Education

Abstract

Evidence and enthusiasm are growing for STEAM education, the integration of arts and design into STEM. There exists a need to better understand design elements of STEAM programs that support STEM literacy. Using the framework of STEAM as a social practice, this study investigates how the designs of Art of Insects and Zoom support students to think through materials differently, consider audience, and engage with their community. Though setting, scientific concepts, and art modalities differed, each STEAM program had design elements that supported STEAM as a social practice. These findings, as well as implications of this work, are discussed.

Authors

• Elizabeth Grace, Washington State University - Spokane

• Robert William Danielson, Washington State University - Spokane

• Molly Louise Kelton, WA

• Alison White, Washington State University

• Anamaria Diaz Martinez, Washington State University

• Jeb P. Owen, Washington State University

• Patricia Butterfield