Embracing a Culture of STEM Education: A Qualitative Research Study

The purpose of this study was to explore teacher and administrator perspectives on STEM education and how they demonstrate characteristics of STEM education. The five schools in this study are part of a greater network of elementary, middle, and high schools that collaborate and learn together. Data were collected through interviews with teachers and administrators and observational notes from meetings and other events. Interviews were recorded and transcribed and then coded to look for themes in the data. Findings indicate teachers and administrators view a supportive leadership, teacher buy in, and comfort in teaching STEM as essential to the implementation of STEM initiatives. Without these necessary components, inequities may arise and lead to less opportunities for students. Overcoming obstacles may require a change in mindset to embrace a culture of STEM teaching and learning. Understanding how teachers and administrators view the importance of STEM and benefits of participating in a community of STEM can help understand how to shift the culture of a school to one more inclusive of STEM education.