Exploring Attitudes and Expectations of Primary School Students towards STEAM Learning: A Multidimensional Approach in Rural Schools in the Islands of Chile

Authors

  • Francisco Kroff Trujillo Universidad de Los Lagos https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1089-7101

    Ingeniero informático con grado académico de magíster en Modelado del conocimiento para entornos Educativos Virtuales, Departamento de Ciencias de la Ingeniería. Con más de 20 años de experiencia en la formación de profesionales en el sur de Chile. Sus líneas de investigación se centran en educación y tecnología, así como en la innovación tecnológica. Académico del Departamento de Ciencias de la Ingeniería, Universidad de Los Lagos, Sede Chiloé, Chile.
    Correo electrónico: francisco. kroff@ulagos.cl

  • Cristian Ferrada Ferrada Universidad de Los Lagos https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2678-7334

    Doctor en Ciencias de la Educación con más de 15 años de experiencia en la investigación, desarrollo y aplicación de metodologías educativas innovadoras. En el área de investigación, centrado en mejorar los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje, tanto en contextos escolares como universitarios, mediante el uso de tecnologías educativas y enfoques pedagógicos avanzados. Académico del Instituto Interuniversitario de Investigación Educativa (IESED-Chile), Departamento de Educación, Universidad de Los Lagos, Sede Chiloé.
    Correo electrónico: cristian.ferrada@ulagos.cl

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18800/educacion.202502.A007

Keywords:

Perceptions, STEAM, Education, Rural schools

Abstract

This study examines the attitudes and expectations of primary school students towards STEAM learning in rural schools in Chile, emphasizing its role in fostering 21st-century skills. A mixed-methods design was employed, combining surveys and semi-structured interviews with 54 fifth- and sixth-grade students in a context characterized by technological limitations. The findings reveal positive perceptions of STEAM, with high levels of motivation and a preference for artistic and hands-on activities. The study concludes that promoting equity in access to STEAM education is crucial, as overcoming gender stereotypes and resource constraints is key to ensuring inclusive education that supports the academic and professional futures of students in rural settings.

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Published

2025-10-17

How to Cite

Kroff Trujillo, F., & Ferrada Ferrada, C. (2025). Exploring Attitudes and Expectations of Primary School Students towards STEAM Learning: A Multidimensional Approach in Rural Schools in the Islands of Chile. Educacion, 34(67), 130–152. https://doi.org/10.18800/educacion.202502.A007

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