Teaching Early and Elementary STEM

Reviewed by Mandy Olsen, Instructor, Western Oregon University on 2/28/22

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

This text provides a comprehensive description of the integrated STEM model and is a useful initial tool for implantation of STEM in elementary classrooms.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

Content seems accurate, connects to NGSS science standards and related research and current theory.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

Connect to STEM and equity, recognition of white dominant perspectives in science and acknowledgment of the need to make space for diverse voices including culturally responsive teaching methods, a focus on equity, and strengths vs. deficit-based approaches to learning. An emphasis on integration and authentic representations of the real world. One drawback is an emphasis on Tennessee standards making it less relevant in other parts of the country though some similarities likely exist.

Clarity rating: 4

Clear and concise materials and resources. Terminology is described using understandable context, at times very academic and less accessible.

Consistency rating: 5

Terminology appears consistent throughout the text. The 5 Es are used throughout the text to connect science methods to units of study (engage, explore, explain, elaborate, evaluate).

Modularity rating: 4

Chapters begin with relevant research and background knowledge for STEM then shifts to potential units of study. Chapters are divided into unit, each with a different topic related to STEM.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

Chapters were organized in a logical fashion and each chapter itself was organized by subtopic. Relatively easy to navigate, a suggestion for future additions would be quick links from the Table of Contents to its corresponding page.

Interface rating: 5

Links, images and charts are all accessible and easy to read.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

No noticeable grammatical errors noted.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

I appreciated the connection to STEM and equity and the acknowledgement of the need for diverse perspectives. Images of white students and teachers was still overwhelmingly present.