With the launch of our 65-day Residential Gap Semester for 2021, we take a look at what exactly STEAM education is and why we’ve developed a STEAM-focused curriculum for this new program.
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Math) is a learning methodology that is increasing in popularity among educators, parents, administrators, and institutions. What is unique about STEAM is that these five disciplines are not focused on in isolation, but brought together through project-based learning that explores them simultaneously. This approach instills an interest in the arts and sciences from a young age, fosters innovation, and prepares students for higher education and beyond.
Critical thinking and problem solving skills have become vital to adapting to today’s rapidly evolving world. Educating students in the STEAM subjects prepares them for the future, regardless of whether they pursue a career in these fields. It is their cross-disciplinary knowledge and creative approach to tackling challenges that is key to their success.
STEAM or STEM?
The main difference between STEAM and STEM is that STEM focuses purely on scientific disciplines, whereas STEAM includes the arts (humanities, language arts, dance, drama, music, visual arts, design etc.). With the addition of the arts, students are more likely to find innovative ways to solve problems and present findings effectively. An additional benefit of STEAM is that it is more gender inclusive and accessible to students of all technical abilities.
STEAM with Outward Bound Costa Rica
OBCR’s new Residential Gap Semester program is a little different from our other courses. Students dive into STEAM topics through a series of modules, including marine ecology, climate action, social justice, Spanish language, and many more. Each module topic is complemented by a combination of research studies, theory teachings, guest lectures, and excursions to enhance understanding, including trips to volcanoes, hot springs, cloud forests, turtle nesting sites, and important political and historical locations in Costa Rica.
This program strikes a balance between adventure and the comforts of a typical residential semester. For example, students spend their nights in our furnished dormitory accommodation, have access to electronics, and have free time to explore the local community and rainforest reserve surrounding our base.
We have created this program for young adults who aren’t just interested in outdoor exploration, but are eager to immerse themselves in the culture, history and natural world of Costa Rica. We are excited to welcome our first students to study STEAM topics in the tropics this year!
Check out our new Residential Gap Semester program to start planning your adventure!
*Please note that all upcoming OBCR programs include the following COVID-19 adjustments to ensure your health and safety on course:*
✓ Non-urban, backcountry/remote focus
✓ Reduced contact with remote indigenous populations and homestay families
✓ No travel to highly populated cities and towns, etc.
✓ Temperatures individually monitored through no-contact thermometer sensors at key points of the program with symptom checks
✓ Maintaining our intensive plate, cup, and utensil cleaning system with a chlorinated dipping bath after scrubbing items with soap and water
✓ All OBCR staff are fully vaccinated
✓ All unvaccinated participants are required to receive a negative PCR OR rapid antigen COVID-19 test prior to their departure to Costa Rica for course
✓ All accommodation will be private—only housing our groups and instructors
✓ All in-country transportation will continue to be via private OBCR-owned vehicles with enhanced disinfectant protocols
✓ Thorough health, safety and sanitation program orientation