The effect of STEM activities on students' mathematics achievement: A meta-synthesis study

Year 2025, Volume: 6 Issue: 2, 93 - 103

Tuba Hatun Er , Ayhan Dikici

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to reveal the impact of STEM-based educational practices on students' mathematical achievement. This research, conducted using the meta-synthesis method, aimed to provide a general interpretation by systematically analyzing the findings of various qualitative studies. Accordingly, studies suitable for inclusion in the meta-synthesis were selected, and the research was conducted with eight qualitative studies consisting of master's and doctoral theses published between 2018 and 2020. When the findings of the qualitative studies included in the meta-synthesis were examined holistically, it was observed that students found the learning process both more enjoyable and more engaging in courses where they participated in STEM-focused learning activities. These activities significantly extended students' attention spans, led to positive developments in their cognitive beliefs about mathematical problem solving, and supported their overall academic motivation. The data obtained indicate that these interactions increased students' academic achievement in mathematics and transformed previously negative attitudes. As students' relationships with mathematics became more constructive, it was understood that motivation to learn, considered a key determinant of course success, played a critical role in this process. As in other disciplines, a prerequisite for effective learning in mathematics is a strong student's intrinsic motivation. STEM-based course content, including experiments, games, and various activities, positively contributed to students' motivation levels, a prerequisite for academic success. The study found that STEM education has largely positive effects on students' mathematics achievement. The study's meta-synthesis findings suggest that STEM-based education is an effective way to improve students' mathematics achievement. Integrating STEM practices into course content can lead to more meaningful and lasting learning experiences.

Keywords

STEM education , math education , attitude toward math , math achievement , Meta-synthesis study

Ethical Statement

This article is derived from the master's thesis prepared by Tuba Hatun Er under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Ayhan Dikici at Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University. And it has ethical committee permittance.

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