Actualising integrated STEM learning

This project focuses on ways to engage students meaningfully in integrated STEM lessons to achieve various 21^st century competencies. 

Are you interested in integrated STEM education and/or have taught integrated STEM, but have been unsure of what might be meaningful learning outcomes of integrated STEM and how they could be determined? One of my recent projects focused on proposing the Productive Interdisciplinary Engagement (PIE) framework adapted from the Productive Disciplinary Engagement (PDE) framework by Engle and Conant (2002). The PIE framework defines engagement in collaborative, systematic and justified decision-making that leads to progress in ideas as meaningful outcomes of integrated STEM learning. Such outcomes could be supported by a dynamic balance of four design principles: problematising, resources, authority, and accountability. Based on the PIE framework, a validated integrated STEM classroom observation protocol (iSTEM protocol) for researchers was constructed. In addition, a STEM Learning Experience Reflection Tool 2.0 was developed to support STEM educators in planning integrated STEM lessons and reflecting on their enacted lessons based on the PIE framework.  

As a PhD student, you may consider different approaches to actualise integrated STEM learning with the aim of students achieving intended 21^st century competencies (e.g., collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creative thinking), explore more deeply into the conceptualisation and/or application of the PIE framework, or investigate other aspects of actualising integrated STEM for various groups of learners.

Important Note

We welcome you to have a conversation with Assistant Professor Ong Yann Shiou to discuss this PhD project further. You are strongly encouraged to reach out to her at least 3 months in advance of application deadline (i.e. 31 January 2025) as the process of confirming the supervision and preparing your proposal for application may take longer than you anticipate. 

Minimum Entry Requirement

A Bachelor’s degree with honours at least at Second Class Upper level, Master’s degree in the relevant areas and the ability to pursue research in the candidate’s proposed field of advanced study.

Shortlisted applicants will undergo an interview session as part of the selection process.

A valid GRE score is required for applicants who are not graduates of the Autonomous Universities in Singapore. See detailed requirements for English language on competency and GRE requirements  here.