Insights

Traditionally, elementary education focused primarily on core subjects such as reading, writing, and arithmetic. However, as educators and researchers began to recognize the importance of nurturing students' broader skill sets, the late 20th century saw the introduction of arts and exploratory programs in elementary schools. Recognizing the diverse talents and interests of students, educators started incorporating subjects like art, music, and physical education into the curriculum. Commonly referred to as “specials”, these programs aimed to provide students with a well-rounded education that nurtured their individual strengths and interests.

Most recently, however, we witnessed a further evolving shift towards a more holistic approach to education, emphasizing the need to develop not only academic knowledge but also critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Fortunately, at the elementary and middle schools, arts education, “A in STEAM”, flourish into a broad array of artistic and creative learning opportunities, expanding into dynamic subjects such as computer coding, culinary arts, engineering, world language, and digital media. These offerings are intrinsic to all learning, but also allow for earlier exploration of talents, interests, and passions for students to explore well before high school.

Why is STEAM important?

STEAM prepares students for a rapidly evolving world by blending analytical rigor with creative problem-solving. It fosters innovation and adaptability, both of which are essential for future careers and global challenges.

Why does STEAM spark joy?

STEAM programs promote:

• Student choice and ownership
• Perseverance through trial and error
• Hands-on, active learning
• Real-world problem solving

These experiences mirror the joy students find in their “favorite classes” recess, PE , lunch and art — because they’re engaged, empowered, and inspired.

How does STEAM builds better solutions?

STEAM incorporates diverse ideas and collaboration. It teaches students to:

• Value multiple perspectives
• Develop soft skills like communication and empathy
• Respect and integrate varying opinions

In STEAM learning spaces that are thoughtfully designed to support exploration and teamwork, students learn not just what to think, but how to think together.

What are the ingredients of STEAM Spaces?

These spaces are more than classrooms — they’re launchpads for innovation. When designed with intention, STEAM environments inspire students to explore, experiment, and express themselves in ways that traditional classrooms often can't.

1. Location, Location, Location

• Space planning to locate STEAM space adjacent to related resources, such as the library media center, art room, science room to promote project- based learning and encourage cross-curricular participation.

2. Flexible, Multi-Use Spaces

• Movable furniture to support collaboration and reconfiguration.
• Zones for individual work, small group collaboration, and whole-class instruction.
• Spaces that can transition between maker activities, experiments, and art projects. Use of glass garage doors and sliding doors to open up and promote an easy flow between these spaces.

3. Hands-On Learning Tools

• Access to manipulatives and tools like robotics kits, building blocks, art supplies, and science equipment.
• Storage solutions that are visible and accessible to encourage student independence and choice.

4. Inspiration & Creativity

• Colorful, stimulating design that reflects the creativity of STEAM.
• Display areas for student work, prototypes, and ongoing projects.
• Interactive walls (whiteboards, pegboards, magnetic surfaces) for brainstorming and sketching ideas.

5. Technology Integration

• Devices and infrastructure to support coding, digital design, and research.
• Smartboards, tablets, and computers that are integrated into the learning process, not just add-ons. Meeting the students where they are in this digital age, encourages a mindset of adaptability and innovation.

6. Connection to Nature

• Natural light, outdoor learning areas, and biophilic design elements to support well-being and creativity.

Where learning comes alive.

With a renewed value in today’s elementary schools, exploratory offerings aim to ignite curiosity, foster creativity, and expose young minds to a diverse range of subjects beyond the traditional core curriculum. By recognizing and nurturing the diverse talents and interests of students, these programs contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals prepared to solve the problems of tomorrow. The evolution of these programs in elementary schools reflects a broader shift towards a more inquiry and self-discovery approach to education.

At Wight & Company, we’re proud to design environments that nurture this kind of learning. Because when students are given the space to imagine, build, and collaborate, they don’t just learn. They thrive.

Research Base

(1) Cook, K. L., Cox, R., Edelen, D., & Bush, S. B. (2025). Elementary student perspectives on STEAM education. Education Sciences, 15(6), 689. https://doi.org/10.3390/educsc...

(2) Amanova, A. K., Butabayeva, L. A., Abayeva, G. A., Umirbekova, A. N., Abildina, S. K., & Makhmetova, A. A. (2025). A systematic review of the implementation of STEAM education in schools. Eurasia Journal of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education, 21(1), Article em2568. https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmst...