STEAM-PjBL Effectiveness on 6c 21st-Century Skills Improvement in Bilingual Educational Program

Abstract

The study uncovered the effectiveness of project-based learning activities using STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in ESL (English as a Second Language) environments that are operating under bilingual educational programs. The primary finding of this study is to examine its effects on the acquisition of 21st-century skills based on the 6C model (Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Citizenship, and Character). In addition, this STEAM-PjBL initiative is also regarded as the turning point in implementing the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach in the school. Although previous studies reported positive results in the development of 2C or 4C skills with the integration of STEAM-PjBL and CLIL, the present study tries to provide a more comprehensive explanation by examining the growth of all six dimensions of 6C skills at the same time. Pre-tests, STEAM-PjBL application, final project presentations, and post-tests constituted the eight weeks of activities undertaken by 160 seventh-grade students from a public school. After six weeks of intervention, the results showed an upward trend towards improvement, as 45% of students were able to progress in all six 6C competencies, 30% showing wide progress in five of the six, 15% showing progress in four, and just 10% showing slight improvement in three. According to this research, the integration of STEAM-PjBL in ESL instruction can not only improve the students' English language skills but also provide them with 21st-century skills, especially in CLIL instruction.