All the STEAM extracurricular activities (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) have become a valuable complement to curricular education, to the point that they are often called paraschools or open classrooms to reinforce this integration process. The concept is not to offer extra classes, but rather to create an opportunity for prepare students for the future in which technology will be omnipresent and new production models will require key skills such as creativity, critical thinking and problem solving.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of STEAM extracurricular activities in schools, highlighting learning strategies, international references and practical examples.
Promoting new learning skills
As we have mentioned, STEAM activities address essential skills for the future, such as problem solving, creativity, communication and critical thinking. Students not only acquire knowledge in specific areas, but also learn to apply that knowledge practically in real world situations. STEAM activities use hands-on educational strategies, such as project-based learning, that engage students in solving tangible problems. Working on concrete and challenging projects encourages the application of theoretical concepts in practical situations, which makes learning meaningful.
International references in STEAM education
International leaders in education, such as Finland and Singapore, have successfully incorporated STEAM education into their school systems. These countries have shown that a balanced approach to STEAM can improve academic performance and prepare students for a technological future.
Practical references for success
Some concrete examples demonstrate the positive impact of STEAM activities. Specifically, the educational program Health Guardians 2030 promoted by the Pfizer Foundation, and developed jointly with IGNITE Serious Play challenges students to STEAM challenges linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in a context of fun and full learning in Minecraft Education worlds. Participants not only improve their technical skills, but also learn to work as a team and propose their best ideas and approaches in social and sustainability areas.
Gender equality and diversity
STEAM activities promote gender equality and diversity. By exposing all students to areas of science and technology from an early age, gender stereotypes can be overcome and the participation of people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds encouraged.
preparation for the future
STEAM activities prepare students for an uncertain future. In an era of rapid technological advances, ability to adapt and continually learn it's crucial. Students who participate in STEAM activities develop the confidence and mindset needed to take on new challenges.
Call to action
It is important that schools continue to expand their STEAM activity offerings. Educators, parents and the school community are increasingly involved with these programs so that more students can benefit from them, integrating these extracurricular activities as an essential element of the paraschool program itself. In the era of Artificial Intelligence and new key competencies, extracurricular activities in Robotics, Programming, 3D Design and Virtual Reality should be a 'must' in the extracurricular program of all educational centers.
Conclusion
STEAM extracurricular activities in schools are a solid investment in the future of education and the workforce. They prepare students to meet technological challenges, foster essential skills and promote diversity. It is time to fully incorporate these enriching learning opportunities and ensure that all students have access to them. The future of innovation and technological advancement depends on it.
