Develop and validate STEM education activities using the “6E Design Teaching Model”: Taking “Dynamics and Energy Conversion in Sail Car Design” as an example

Abstract

This study employed a mixed research approach to analyze commonly used teaching models in STEM education and integrated the findings of comprehensive STEM research. The 6E Design Teaching Model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Engineer, Enrich and Evaluate) was selected. It was used to develop STEM education activities targeting students in the 5th and 6th grades, focusing on “Dynamics and Energy Conversion in Sail Car Design”. Through three rounds, the effectiveness and feasibility of the activities were examined. The study employed quantitative tools and qualitative interviews (including teachers and students) to improve the teaching process and instructional framework. The results indicate that (1) STEM education activities developed using the 6E Model significantly enhance students' interest in engineering subjects when applied in teaching practice; (2) the instructional activities can effectively be applied in classrooms that integrate scientific inquiry and engineering practices. Over the course of the three rounds, the participating teachers demonstrated improved classroom control and time management, while student scores in engineering design projects showed noticeable progress. Through the optimization of the teaching process, instructional framework, and other aspects such as materials, operations and management, the study ultimately developed a highly practical STEM education case that integrates engineering practices into science inquiry classrooms. This case serves as a reference for frontline science teachers and researchers.