Exploring the impact of STEAM and connected learning on skills of digital age in primary schools

Abstract

This study looked at how combining connected learning and STEAM activities affected elementary school pupils' digital skills. The main topics were learning and innovation skills for the 21st century, social entrepreneurship goals, and digital media literacy. The study employed a mixed-method exploratory sequential design, initially identifying student interests through interviews with both parents and students. These observations directly influenced the development of a 10-week STEAM-oriented scientific curriculum based on the ideas of connected learning. We used the 21st Century Learning and Innovation Skills Scale, the Social Entrepreneurship Intentions Scale, and the Digital Literacy Scale to test people before and after training. We used structural equation modeling to look at the data. The results showed that combining STEAM activities with connected learning greatly improved students' digital media literacy. This was made even better by their gaining of 21st-century skills and social entrepreneurship abilities. This research validates the efficacy of integrating STEAM with linked learning to cultivate crucial digital competences and innovative talents among young learners.