Conectando Ciencia y Creatividad: Fortaleciendo Vocaciones científicas con metodología STEAM en niños, niñas y adolescentes

Abstract

The training program in scientific vocations of the Santo Tomás University, Bucaramanga Section, is part of the training strategies in science, technology and innovation, seeking to strengthen the capacities of children and adolescents in the STEAM + ART field (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics). This program is part of a multi-campus culture and aims to promote the social appropriation of knowledge in the territories, promoting social development and empowering new generations. The initiative is aimed at generating spaces for citizen participation and consolidating training in STEAM capabilities as tools for social and scientific transformation. In this process, regional and cultural practices are highlighted, and a national perspective based on territorial realities is sought. Between 2021-2022, this social appropriation process entitled Connecting Science and Creativity: Strengthening Scientific Vocations with STEAM Methodology in Children and Adolescents with an educational approach was developed, which emerged to respond to the challenges of current education, integrating scientific, technological and artistic disciplines, promoting creative and critical thinking. The USTA-GENIUS program focuses on fostering scientific vocations through the formulation of questions and the active participation of students in research and innovation activities. Young people develop fundamental skills in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, arts and physical culture, contributing to the increase of scientific culture in the country.