Lifelong Learning Platform | LLLP - European Civil Society for Education

INCLUSIVE STEM LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS: CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS

While many believe all students should be taught equitably, in practice there are many barriers to achieving this goal, especially when it comes to inclusive Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology (STEM) learning environments. When considering such STEM environments, inclusiveness does not only refer to the education of students with disabilities, but also to those who are underrepresented in STEM due to ethnicity, gender or any other vulnerability factor. Scientix, the community for science education in Europe, organised an online Science Topics Networking Seminar (STNS) in collaboration with the projects SpicE – Special Education STEAM Academy and Far Beyond the Barriers . At the event, 15 experts representing various stakeholders in STEM education came together to discuss the challenges of supporting inclusive STEM learning environments. This observation paper outlines the key discussion points raised during the seminar. The main points to consider in achieving an inclusive STEM learning environment are: (1) creating a personalised strategy for each student; (2) organising teacher training programmes on how to promote inclusivity in STEM teaching; (3) eliminating barriers, such as gender inequality or socio-economic barriers; (4) implementing policies to support inclusivity; and (5) involving parents and local communities.

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