APD1258H: Spatial Thinking and STEAM Education

0.50

This course offers a thorough examination of the role that spatial thinking plays in STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics). Striking a balance between theory and practice, this course aims to develop a greater awareness and appreciation of what spatial reasoning is, how it develops, and how it might look and feel across a variety of educational contexts (e.g., preschool to university classrooms as well as maker spaces). We will review and discuss research on the relationship between spatial thinking and student interest, motivation, performance, and creativity in STEAM. Moreover, we will consider evidence suggesting that an increased curricular focus on spatial reasoning offers more equitable and accessible entry points into STEAM. Considerable time will be spent discussing ways of improving spatial thinking. Ultimately, this course offers new insights into the fundamental role that spatial thinking plays in STEAM education, begging us to reimagine what learning and education might look like if spatial thinking is given greater priority and explicit curricular focus.

APD5035H Spatial Thinking and STEAM Education
Applied Psychology and Human Development
Online
In Class
Hybrid