Posted: March 23rd, 2023
Review the research literature on STEM education
Review the research literature on STEM education and a range of recent (past 5 years) STEM education Apps currently available for children in the early years. Select three (3) Apps, one from each category discussed in class (construction and experimentation, skills-based, exploratory games-based, etc.) Describe the functions of the Apps and assess their potential to effectively engage with STEM concepts and skills; and reflect the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
Criteria
• Discuss recent research studies on STEM education in the early years. Refer to relevant literature.
• Discuss STEM education Apps for young children.
• Select three (3) Apps that are discussed in class and assess their potential to support childrens learning and understanding of STEM concepts. When reviewing these apps consider the following:
o a brief summary surrounds the features of the app.
o explain the functionality of the app and its effectiveness.
o Describe specifically the activities and what are the related concepts and skills involved within each activity.
o Explain how the app linked with STEM learning in the early years.
o Justify how engagement through the app activities progress towards the EYLF five (5) Learning Outcomes. Please provide rationale according to the childrens engagement within the app activities when relating to each of the EYLF five (5) Learning Outcomes.
Report – provide recommendation
Academic English expression and referencing – APA style.
Review the research literature on STEM education and a range of recent (past 5 years) STEM education Apps currently available for children in the early years. Select three (3) Apps, one from each category discussed in class (construction, experimentation, skills-based etc.) Describe the functions of the Apps and assess their potential to effectively engage with STEM concepts and skills, and reflect the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF).
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Introduction
STEM education has been identified as critical in the current era of technological advancement, and its relevance in the early years of childhood development cannot be overemphasized. A review of the literature on STEM education in the early years indicates that the use of technology in learning can significantly enhance children’s engagement and learning outcomes. The purpose of this paper is to review recent research studies on STEM education in the early years and evaluate the potential of three STEM education Apps in supporting children’s understanding and learning of STEM concepts.
Recent Research on STEM Education in the Early Years
According to Togneri and Mocanu (2021), early exposure to STEM education has a positive impact on children’s cognitive development, and it can contribute to their career aspirations in STEM-related fields. Several studies have emphasized the importance of early childhood STEM education, including the work of Benham (2017) and Brown, Smith, and Stein (2018). These studies indicate that STEM education in the early years can improve children’s problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking abilities, which are essential skills for future success.
STEM Education Apps for Young Children
The use of STEM education Apps in the early years is a recent development that has gained significant attention due to its potential to enhance children’s learning outcomes. These Apps provide opportunities for children to engage with STEM concepts in a fun and interactive way. There are several STEM education Apps available for young children, including construction and experimentation Apps, skills-based Apps, and exploratory games-based Apps.
Construction and Experimentation App: LEGO DUPLO WORLD
LEGO DUPLO WORLD is an App designed for children aged 2-5 years old. The App provides an interactive platform for children to engage in construction and experimentation activities. The App features a range of interactive activities, including building, experimenting, and problem-solving. The App allows children to create different models using virtual LEGO DUPLO blocks, and they can experiment with different ideas and designs.
The App’s functionality is effective in engaging children in STEM learning by providing them with opportunities to explore, experiment, and problem-solve. The App’s activities are linked to STEM concepts such as spatial reasoning, cause and effect, and problem-solving. For instance, children can build a bridge using virtual LEGO DUPLO blocks and experiment with different designs to see which one is the most effective.
The App’s engagement with STEM learning aligns with the EYLF five learning outcomes. For example, the App’s activities can enhance children’s creativity, problem-solving skills, and social and emotional development. The App’s activities can also promote children’s cognitive development by engaging them in critical thinking, spatial reasoning, and experimentation.
Skills-Based App: Moose Math
Moose Math is an App designed for children aged 3-7 years old. The App provides