1 Introduction to STEAM teaching with technology

In this first module, we'll lay the groundwork with an introduction to inquiry-based and online teaching and learning.

You'll explore key concepts, delve into inquiry-based learning methods, and discuss the roles participants play in this dynamic form of learning. You'll consider the recent expansion from STEM to STEAM, recognizing the important roles of creativity and arts-related representation and expression in critical STEM thinking. Finally, you'll take your first look at virtual labs and simulations, browsing through the Demonstration Gallery to see these innovative resources in action.

At the end of this module's activities, you will be able to:

• explain how inquiry-based learning promotes curiosity, critical thinking, and active engagement in STEAM education,
• outline the characteristics that separate STEAM education from the more traditional STEM and how these relate to inquiry-based approaches to teaching and learning,
• apply key principles of effective online teaching and learning to design engaging, inclusive, and learner-centred STEAM lessons, and
• demonstrate how virtual labs can be integrated into STEAM lessons to promote inquiry, problem-solving, and active student engagement.

There are four discussion forums for this module, where you'll be asked:

• how have you learned from an inquiry-based approach in the past or how might you apply it in the future?
• how would you apply a STEAM-based approach to teach a concept within your subject area or solve a real-world issue in your community?
• what inspires you about online learning, and how would you use an inquiry-based approach to overcome some of its challenges?
• based on your first impression, what are the greatest opportunities associated with virtual labs and simulations in your own teaching and learning setting?

To begin exploring Module 1, select Activity 1.1 from the menu above or click the Next button below to continue on to the next page. For the rest of the course, you can move forwards or backwards in the course by clicking the Next or Previous buttons at the bottom of each page.