A Museum-Based STEAM Approach to Science Learning, Artistic Skills, and Cultural Heritage
Ganime Aydın – Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University - ORCID
Melisa Şenyürek – Yarım Elma Etüt Merkezi - ORCID
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of museum-integrated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) activities in enhancing middle school students’ conceptual understanding of science, developing artistic skills, and increasing awareness of the recognition and preservation of cultural heritage within out-of-school learning environments. The research focuses on STEAM-based educational practices implemented in museum settings as interdisciplinary learning environments that connect scientific concepts with artistic expression and cultural heritage through Kolb’s Learning Theory. A mixed-methods triangulation design was employed to examine both quantitative learning outcomes and qualitative changes in students’ learning processes. The study group consisted of 20 eighth-grade students selected through purposive sampling. The implementation involved three structured museum visits: the Naval Museum, Troy Museum, and Ceramic Museum. Quantitative data were collected using a researcher-developed Concept Knowledge Test and the Cultural Heritage Awareness Scale, administered as pre- and post-tests. Qualitative data was obtained through structured observation forms and artistic evaluation forms. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS v.25.0, while qualitative data were examined through content analysis. The findings indicate that STEAM-based museum activities positively influenced students’ understanding of scientific concepts, enhanced their awareness of cultural heritage conservation, and supported the development of selected artistic skills.
Keyword: STEAM Education in Museums
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