How to link pedagogy, technology and STEM learning?

Abstract

Several studies show that technology has been actively used in everyday life, but much less in the learning context. When technology has been used by teachers, its main purpose has often been to engage students and motivate them to learn. In the Estonian context there are only 5% of students who use tablets and smartphones not only for searching for and sharing information but also for communication and content creation in the learning context. Linking technology use with different pedagogical approaches and measuring its effect on learning outcomes is much rarer. In several European research and development projects we have tested different pedagogic scenarios to use technology in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) education. In these scenarios the inquiry-based learning approach has been supported with technology. In this paper we describe these cases and provide recommendations to improve learning process by linking pedagogy, technology and STEM learning more successfully. We propose that the main characteristics of new technology- enhanced learning environments have to enable self-directed computer-supported collaborative inquiry-based learning and the teachers have to support students’ self-regulated learning, digital competence and autonomy in learning.