Road-STEAMer theoretical framework

Following the co-creation workshop held in May 2023, the Road-STEAMer consortium has refined its draft conceptual framework, incorporating feedback received from workshop participants (mainly academics and practitioners).

The final document, which is available for download here, aims to develop a comprehensive conceptual framework for STEAM aiming to cover all its aspects and promised positive impacts in relation to the core foci of the Road-STEAMer project:

• the use of artistic approaches to STEM involving creative thinking and applied arts (the “A” in STEAM);
• moving beyond “just hard science”, by encompassing the world of technology and everyday life aspects which are not always obviously related to science for the student (connecting to open schooling and open science); and
• reasons why STEAM can prove particularly useful in the analysed socioeconomic context in order to address the identified needs.

The final version of the framework consists of:

a) an underpinning concept of STEAM as relational,

b) a set of four thematic groups of theoretical approaches, which enable

c) the spotlighting of key criteria for effective STEAM practice.

Examples of how this framework enables well-grounded conceptual understanding of STEAM practices from previous EU-funded projects are included. We argue that, with further work to be undertaken on making these ideas public-facing and accessible, this broad conceptual framework will be of use to policymakers and practitioners in creating the conditions for, and designing, STEAM practice that is effective in achieving key goals identified by the Road-STEAMer project.