Research project The Black Box of STEM Education

This thesis examines learning in activities that combine science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) - focusing on learning processes and how future skills such as collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking are developed.
Två elever iförda skyddsglasögon håller varsitt provrör.

FOTO: WAVEBREAKMEDIA

Can you remember a time in school when you did a science experiment, built a bridge out of popsicle sticks, or programmed a toy robot? If so, you took part in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) activity. For many students, these hands-on activities leave a lasting impression because they make learning fun. But how can we understand if STEM activities help students to learn about science or engineering, or if these activities give students the chance to work together or to be creative ? This research project looks at what students say and do during a STEM activity, and creates network graphs that show connections between knowledge and skills. By analyzing these networks, this research project attempts to understand what makes STEM activities promising for preparing students to join our modern, technological, world.

Dissertation

Dagmar Hedman defended her doctoral thesis June 9 2025, at the Department of Education.

Exploring the Black Box of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Learning: An Epistemic Network Analysis of Three STEM Activities

Members

  • Tore West, huvudhandledare

    Professor

    Institutionen för pedagogik och didaktik

  • Tore West, Main Supervisor

    Professor

    Department of Education

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