Enhancing students’ 21st century skills through modular stem activities: a new curriculum reform in Sri Lanka
Date
2024-11-01
Authors
Wickramasinghe, M. S.
De Silva, A. D. A.
Bandara, T. M. L. P.
Rajudevan, V.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Postgraduate Institute of Science (PGIS), University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
Abstract
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education is crucial for
developing 21st century skills. The present science curriculum activities in secondary schools
often do not prioritize exploration, creativity, and innovation, which are central to STEM
activities. The objectives of this study were to assess students’ attitudes towards learning
science concepts through STEM activities and to explore the challenges they faced while
conducting STEM activities given in the proposed science module. It was expected to
identify how proposed STEM activities enhance students’ 21st century skills. A purposive
sample of 121 Grade 6 students from four schools was selected, and a pilot study was carried
out in the Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces of Sri Lanka. The STEM activities were
selected from the module 'Things Around Us,' focusing on the theme of matter and energy.
Data were gathered using a quantitative questionnaire, analysis of formative assessment
marks based on rubrics, focus group discussions with students, teacher interviews, and
observation schedules. The analysis of the questionnaire data and assessment marks
indicated that the proposed STEM activities effectively developed 21st century skills.
Teacher interviews supported these findings. Observations and student interviews revealed
that students desired more activities focused on designing structures. The observations
showed that students found innovative solutions to problems while engaging in STEM
activities. In conclusion, the STEM approach provided a more active learning environment
while enhancing students’ 21st century skills.
Description
Keywords
21st century skills , Modular approach , Science Education , STEM activities
Citation
Proceedings of the Postgraduate Institute of Science Research Congress (RESCON) -2024, University of Peradeniya, P 231