Estuarine Ecosystems: Using T & E Signature Approaches to Support STEM Integration

Overview & Synopsis

STEM-based understandings and experiences that prepare learners beyond the classroom are of imminent need, as today's STEM education students are tomorrow's leaders in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and education (Prabhu, 2009). Integrative STEM education signifies the intentional integration of science and mathematics with the processes, content, and procedure of technology and engineering education (Sanders & Wells, 2010). Intentionally embedding signature approaches of technology/engineering education into STEM-based activity presents a unique method of educational integration that is grounded in the approaches, pedagogies, and strategies that have contributed to student educational engagement and successes over the years. The intent of this article is to provide an example of how the signature approaches of technology/engineering education can be used as the basis for an authentic integrative STEM education experience for middle school students. (Contains 5 figures.)