Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Education

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Curriculum and Instruction

Advisor/Mentor

Donna Owen

Committee Member

Cathy Wissehr

Abstract

This research project investigates the implementation of a STREAM Education curriculum – integrating science, technology, reading/writing, engineering, arts/humanities, and mathematics, with a group of fourteen elementary-aged students. The study explores how the intentional inclusion of Reading and the Arts within a traditional STEM framework - guided by the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning CASEL framework - can enrich students’ social-emotional wellbeing and engagement in learning. In partnership with SOAR Afterschool Care, an eight-week instructional project was implemented in which students were read What Do You Do with an Idea? by Kobi Yamada as a central text. The book served as a springboard for students to reflect on themes of creativity, innovation, and perseverance, as well as to imagine how their own ideas could make a meaningful difference in their everyday environments. Guided by each of these themes, students collaboratively brainstormed and developed hands-on projects designed to address real-life challenges relevant to their own lives and communities.

The research methodology included pre- and post- surveys completed by students, allowing for the collection and analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data. Findings indicate a higher indication for hands-on learning and confidence in self-directed project work. Despite limitations such as a small sample size, this study underscores the value of interdisciplinary, hands-on learning experiences in empowering young learners and fostering creativity, confidence, and authentic skill development. Overall, the findings suggest a need for continued research on subject integration, particularly within STREAM-based approaches, as such models show promise in supporting the development of students’ social-emotional competencies.

Keywords

STEM; Social-Emotional Learning; CASEL; Literacy; Arts and Humanities; Northwest Arkansas; Springdale; Arkansas; K-6 Education

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