Exploring The Knowledge And Experience Of Childhood Education Teachers On Steam Education In Indonesia

Abstract

This study investigates early childhood teachers' knowledge and experiences with STEAM education after participating in STEAM learning training in professional education in Indonesia. The research participants were 51 teachers who had completed professional education and worked in raudhatul athfal, or Islamic kindergartens. Participants completed a test consisting of thirteen knowledge items in the form of closed questions and group interviews to describe teachers' experiences implementing STEAM education. The findings show that after attending training, teachers' knowledge of STEAM education increases, and teachers have experience in selecting the best method, affordable media, and collaborating with material experts in STEAM learning. Teachers also stated that they required the availability of learning media and learning collaborators. Despite having received professional education, the majority of early childhood education teachers in Indonesia require the availability of media and collaborators in STEAM education, according to the findings of this study. The implications and recommendations for the future are also discussed.