GRIFE Special Interest Group Hosts 1st Online STE(A)M Conference
brought together a diverse group of researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts from Finland, Hong Kong and around the world!
This year, the theme of GRIFE SIG STE(A)M conference is “Mapping STE(A)M Education in Finland and Hong Kong by Tackling Global Educational Challenges”, which aimed to generate data-driven insights and innovative strategies for integrating STE(A)M into curricula, teacher training, and policies.
The virtual event, which included participants from Finland, Hong Kong, and beyond, provided a dynamic forum for exploring the evolving landscape of STE(A)M education and addressing its diverse challenges. The conference commenced with a pre-conference networking session, fostering connections among speakers and attendees, followed by a comprehensive program of keynote speeches, lightning talks, and moderated discussion among experts and enthusiastic participants.
Keynote Highlights
The conference featured two insightful keynote presentations. Professor Jan Lundell from the Department of Chemistry, University of Helsinki, delivered a keynote titled “Phenomenon-based cooking with STEAM”. His presentation explored inquiry-based learning in science education, emphasizing how real-world contexts like cooking can enhance student engagement, critical thinking, and understanding of scientific methods within a STEAM framework.
Dr. Peter Zhihong Wan from the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, The Education University of Hong Kong, presented on “STEM for ALL, STEM by ALL: Theories and Practice of the SWEETIE STEM learning Platform in Hong Kong.” Dr. Wan discussed the challenges and solutions in implementing inclusive STEM education, highlighting the SWEETIE STEM curriculum and its online learning platform designed to make STEM accessible to all students and empower teachers with effective instructional strategies. He also touched upon the potential of GenAI technologies to further enhance STEM learning.
Lightning Talks: Diverse Perspectives on STE(A)M Education
The conference also showcased a series of engaging lightning talks across three key themes:
- Navigating the STE(A)M education continuum: From classrooms to curriculum:
This theme included discussions on the intrinsic role of arts in STE(A)M, as presented by Ms. Paula Walshe (Early Childhood Education, South East Technological University, Carlow, Ireland), who also introduced her practical book on incorporating STEAM in early childhood education.
Dr. Mi Yung Hong (Korea National University of Education, South Korea) explored pioneer curriculum design reflecting 21st-century competencies, advocating for a shift towards holistic growth.
Dr. Kason Ka Ching Cheung (The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong) discussed the opportunities and challenges of incorporating Artificial Intelligence into science education in Hong Kong.
- Critical Thoughts for the sustainable future for STE(A)M education – from the societal, technological, and environmental perspectives
Ms. Biying Nina Wen (Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, China, University of Liverpool, UK) presented on “Motherhood in STEM: Burden or Asset for Female Faculty?”, shedding light on gender-specific challenges and how motherhood can enhance teaching practices.
Dr. Davy Tsz Kit Ng (The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong) discussed the evolution from AI literacy to Generative AI literacy, exploring its transformative potential and risks in education.
Ms. Orsolya Tuba (Finnish Institute for Educational Research, Ģֱ) highlighted the integration of sustainability and planetary well-being in STE(A)M education, emphasizing action competencies for the future.
- STE(A)M Kaleidoscope – Collaboration and Innovation worldwide:
Dr. Andreas Daniel Matt (Director IMAGINARY GmbH, Germany) shared insights into creating a worldwide participative challenge for the International Day of Mathematics, focusing on mathematics, art, and creativity.
Mr. Leonard Sommer (Founder of Initiative Classroom Thinktank, Germany) showcased STE(A)M innovation through MyMachine, a project fostering creativity and future skills, and introduced FUTUROMUNDO Multi-Conference + Festival 2025, a visionary event exploring the future of education, innovation, and urban transformation.
STE(A)M Synergy: A Collaborative Future
The conference concluded with a moderated discussion titled “STE(A)M Synergy,” where all speakers and participants were invited to collectively explore and map the ever-evolving STE(A)M landscape. This collaborative exchange of innovative ideas underscored the GRIFE SIG’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary approaches and addressing global educational challenges through STE(A)M.
The 1st Online STE(A)M Conference by GRIFE SIG served as a significant platform for scholars and educators from Finland, Hong Kong and around the world to advance discussions and collaborations in STE(A)M education, reinforce its crucial role in preparing future generations for a rapidly changing world.
Contact Points at JYU:
Dr. Kristóf Fenyvesi
Senior Researcher, Finnish Institute for Educational Research
Email: kristof.fenyvesi@jyu.fi
Phone: +358 40 805 3324
Dr. Josephine Lau
Project Researcher, Finnish Institute for Educational Research
Email: josephine.pw.lau@jyu.fi
