Since 2019, the IU School of Education has offered STEAM professional development programs to cohorts of middle school art and STEM teachers from rural schools in Southwest Central Indiana.
The ISTEAM project infuses art into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curricula by having teams of teachers explore interdisciplinary connections with the goal of designing and implementing engaging, inquiry-based activities for students. The program utilizes engineering design, art, and music to engage students in creative and innovative pursuits that serve to build robust understandings of core disciplinary concepts and advance student technological and artistic knowledge and skills. Career awareness of disciplines that foster creativity and innovation are highlighted throughout the program such that participating teachers can share STEAM career options with their students.
I-STEAM lessons and activities draw inspiration from real-world applications that integrate art and STEM. These include having students constructing solar sculptures and Calder-inspired mobiles, engineering wearable technologies, optimizing green energy devices, and designing data visualizations. Digital fabrication using laser cutters and 3D printers is emphasized throughout the project.
This program is sponsored by the Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement.