Exploratory Study on Perceptions of Teachers and Students on STEM Education

Abstract

For schools to include quality STEM education, it is important to understand the perceptions and beliefs of teachers and students related to STEM education. The present study therefore aimed to explore the current status of STEM education along with the gaps and needs in public schools of Pakistan. Moreover, the study also gauges the perceptions of teachers and students regarding genders specific choices in STEM fields. Face to face semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 teachers and 12 students at middle level of public schools of Wah Cantt. Thematic analysis (Braun and Clarke, 2006) was used as a method for identifying, analyzing, and reporting themes (or patterns) within the data. The reliability of the research was ensured by credibility, dependability, transferability and conformability. Analysis of the data collected from teachers revealed 5 broad themes labeled as STEM awareness, indigenous challenges, STEM integration, support and gender differences. Similarly, analysis of data collected from students revealed three main themes labeled as STEM awareness, STEM learning and gender differences. Responses revealed that majority of teachers and students had basic understanding of STEM disciplines but lacked in-depth understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of STEM education. Teachers indicated that integrated curriculum where students learn science, technology, engineering & math’s and are able to solve modern-day problems and think practically is necessary to implement in a systematic manner in public schools. While teachers showed positive views on STEM education, they reported barriers such as pedagogical challenges, curriculum challenges, structural challenges, and concerns about students, about assessments, and lack of government support. Additionally, student’s responses were also similar with teachers regarding gaps and needs in the curriculum. They stated that there is a need to integrate STEM-related activities in schools to promote discussions related to STEM disciplines. The findings also suggested that it is vii important to introduce all students (male/female) to STEM subjects early in their lives to bridge the gap between gender disparity amongst males and females in STEM careers in Pakistan. The present research used one to one interview method of qualitative research to get the perceptions of teachers and students. Using mix-method approach would be helpful to gain a deeper understanding of the topic.