STEAM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. STEAM focuses educational programs around these subject areas, hoping to encourage young children with an interest in the sciences and arts.
STEAM programs in libraries can help encourage children in their community by engaging in activities that promote these fields of study. STEAM employs project-based learning which enables students to engage in creativity and problem solving simultaneously.
STEAM exposes students to the creative process by encouraging tasks that require children to ask thoughtful questions while seeking and discovering answers. They can apply this process to learning and problem-solving. These programs also increase critical thinking by requires students to think through the problems at hand, applying the knowledge they have learned to these issues.
According to the Lesley University Online, other benefits of STEAM include:
-providing unique ways to solve problems
-giving students hands on learning experiences
-encouraging girls to explore works in science fields of study
-shows the value of the art
-collaboration
-confidence
-creativity
-encourages students to try new things
-builds teamwork and leadership skills
Libraries can incorporate STEAM by hosting programs with STEAM themed activities, adding STEAM materials to their collections, and including STEAM activity centers int hier
The following is a list of local library programs that promote STEAM in their community.
The Massachusetts Public Library https://guides.masslibsystem.org/STEAM/programs
American Library Association https://www.ala.org/alsc/sites/ala.org.alsc/files/content/NI14Handouts/STEAM%20Power%20Your%20Library%20ALSC14.pdf
Los Angeles Public Library https://www.lapl.org/steam/welcome
York County Libraries https://www.yorklibraries.org/library-services-programs/steam/