‘STEAM from the Start’: Proposing a Conceptual Framework for the Development and Implementation of a STEAM Training Intervention for Early Childhood Educators

The benefits of STEAM, a transdisciplinary approach incorporating the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and maths, for engaging learners, has been recognised internationally and increasingly forms part of educational policies both in Ireland and internationally. Although previous studies have demonstrated an increase in educator knowledge of STEAM post-training, these studies also highlight a continued lack of STEAM implementation in ECEC pedagogical practice. Through a review of existing national and international research, educational policy, best practice guidelines, and engagement with ECEC educators as participants, this phased research study utilises constructivist grounded theory to create a novel approach to STEAM training for ECEC educators. This new approach takes the form of a proposed ‘STEAM from the Start’ conceptual framework, grounded in the experiences of ECEC educators. Designed to not only impart knowledge of STEAM and increase educator skill and ability, but also to support educators’ confidence and belief in the value and importance of incorporating STEAM into their pedagogy. Therefore, aiming to increase educators’ willingness and likelihood of incorporating STEAM into their ECEC pedagogical practice in the short, medium and longer term.