Discover how STEAM plays a crucial role in the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) with Mark Ryan, PYP Coordinator at GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi
Did you know that in the PYP, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) isn’t just a subject on its own?
Instead, it’s a vibrant part of every learning experience. Here are five exciting ways STEAM is woven into the fabric of learning; fuelling exploration, innovation, and transferable skills.
1. STEAM is integrated into every lesson
In the PYP, STEAM isn’t just an add-on—it’s everywhere! The IB’s transdisciplinary approach makes STEAM an integral part of education, seamlessly connecting each subject.
Students are encouraged to bring ideas from one area into another, making their learning experiences more cohesive, dynamic, and meaningful.
2. STEAM makes local and global connections
The PYP’s focus on linking local and global contexts aligns with STEAM education. By tackling real-world problems through project-based learning, students build critical thinking skills and understand their role as global citizens.
3. The engineering design process aligns with IB inquiry
Both STEAM and the PYP are inquiry-driven. The engineering design process—a creative method for solving problems; closely mirrors the IB inquiry cycle, inspiring pupils to explore, question, and reflect, perfectly aligning with how they would tackle a STEAM challenge. This approach helps pupils learn concepts and develop essential problem-solving skills.
4. Parents and the community play a vital role
STEAM learning thrives when parents and the community are part of the journey. Schools often partner with organisations like 8billionideas, bringing experts into the classroom to collaborate on projects that foster innovation and action.
At GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi, each grade develops units encouraging everyone to think about their role in community change, enriching learning with real-world expertise.
5. STEAM sparks engagement
STEAM in the PYP captivates children, encouraging deep questioning, curriculum connections, and ownership of learning. Inquiry drives the learning experience, fostering rich exploration and curiosity. STEAM stimulates questions such as “why” and “how” – critical components of the IB’s inquiry-based approach.
STEAM in the PYP is not just an add-on but a core part of the transdisciplinary approach, building meaningful connections beyond the classroom and into the real world.
Through inquiry, expert collaboration, and integration of the engineering design process, students are empowered to engage with their learning and take action.
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