Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and STEAM (STEM with the integration of Arts) educational programs in enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity among senior secondary school students in Ilesa East Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria. In response to the global emphasis on 21st-century skills, the research explored how integrating arts into STEM subjects promotes deeper student engagement, cognitive development, and innovation. The study assessed the level of arts integration by teachers, the influence of STEM/STEAM on student engagement and skill development, the role of project-based learning, students’ perceptions across academic disciplines, and challenges faced during implementation. A descriptive survey design was adopted. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire titled Effectiveness of STEM and STEAM Programs in Senior Secondary Schools (ESSP), administered to 250 respondents (200 students and 50 teachers) from 10 secondary schools. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, and t-tests. Findings indicated that both teachers and students view STEAM positively. Most students (89.5%) agreed that integrating arts with STEM aligns with modern job market demands, while 94% of teachers reported that project-based learning in STEAM increases motivation and real-world application of knowledge. Additionally, 97.5% of students noted improved communication and teamwork skills. However, challenges such as insufficient funding and limited teacher training remain significant barriers. The t-test showed no significant difference between arts and science students’ perceptions of STEM and STEAM (t = 0.892, df = 198, p > 0.05). The study concludes that integrating arts into STEM supports the development of students’ creative and critical capacities and recommends stronger curriculum integration, teacher collaboration, funding, and policy support.

Keywords: Arts Integration; creativity; critical thinking; educational engagement; problem-solving; project-based learning; secondary education; STEM; STEAM