Guía didáctica Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) para fomentar el aprendizaje de la óptica geométrica

Abstract

The present study analyzed the impact of the application of a STEM didactic guide on the academic performance and motivation of the students of the Experimental Sciences Pedagogy program at the University of Cuenca during the second semester of 2024. The methodology used is quasi-experimental with a quantitative approach and explanatory scope, there was an experimental group of 29 students, to whom a pretest and post-test were applied to evaluate academic performance and a motivation test. The results obtained indicate a significant increase in academic performance, with an average change of 2.17 points on a scale of 10, analyzed with the Wilcoxon test for paired samples. Motivation, reflected a mostly positive perception towards STEM, with 66% of favorable responses. These findings highlight the relevance of the STEM approach in the learning of geometric optics, because it improves the understanding of abstract concepts, and also increases student interest and participation in academic activities. The innovation of this research lies in implementing this strategy in higher education to optimize learning in physics, and the development of scientific, technological and critical skills, essential to face professional and academic challenges, especially in science and engineering.