How transdisciplinary integration, creativity and student motivation interact in three STEAM projects for gifted education?

Abstract

The study analyses the relationship between transdisciplinary integration, creativity and student motivation in three STEAM projects. It has been carried out over 3 years in a programme for gifted students. 152 students (11–12 years old), five teachers and four external professionals participated. The projects included a variety of scientific, humanistic and artistic activities, together with outings, the collaboration of experts and the creation of a transdisciplinary art-based final products. The research was carried out through the analysis of qualitative data (interviews, video-recordings, participant observation) using Atlas.ti8 within the framework of Activity Theory and statistical analysis of questionnaires. It shows how the transdisciplinary integration favoured a complex approach to knowledge with an essential role of the artistic-based transdisciplinary final products and fostered a plural approach to creativity. The active participation of the students favoured their motivation and involvement. The significant correlation between creativity, student motivation and transdisciplinary integration emerges as a key element in the STEAM projects implemented.