ECA Community of Practice: STEM in early childhood

The purpose of this Community of Practice is to explore the integration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics ​(STEM) in the early ​years curriculum.

Early childhood experiences of STEM create opportunities for children to build an understanding of these learning approaches in play-based environments. Fostering enjoyment of STEM, extending learning dispositions and developing future-focused skills are all important for young learners today.

Through this Community of Practice, you will seek to explore the ways in which problem-solving, communication, risk-taking, curiosity and other such skills and processes currently exist and can be cultivated through play in early childhood spaces, with a specific focus on using STEM with children aged birth to five.

Engaging in action research will allow you to focus on the unique STEM experiences of the children in your own context and create a plan for meaningful support, change or learning within the environment.

Learning outcomes:

• Shift and extend your pedagogical understanding of how to provide authentic science, technology, engineering and maths in early childhood curriculums
• Learn ways of integrating STEM into play-based experiences for children
• Design, implement and evaluate an effective action research project
• Become an active member of the online community by engaging in critically reflective dialogue with peers and colleagues across Australia