STEAM Education in an Online Modality

Abstract

This chapter investigates the status of one of the online programs at a not-for-profit university in Egypt offering professional development diplomas to school teachers and leaders. The program focuses on a STEAM online modality track. To explore the program, both graduates and instructors teaching in the online modality program were part of this research. Two main instruments were designed and administered: one was a focus group discussion with instructors in addition to individual interviews with 9 graduates. The research utilized a case study approach and data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings show areas of strength in the program design and delivery. Learners were clearly impacted by the online modality, although for some it started as a shock then gradually improved as they too started to replicate instructors' scaffolding and interdisciplinary design with their students. Recommendations were provided related to the start of the program to include more guidance and the final practicum course where it turned out to be an opportunity for innovative thinking.