Trends and challenges of integrating the STEAM approach in education: A scopus literature review

Introduction: Scopus is a bibliographic database recognized globally for its breadth and depth, and plays a vital role in identifying research trends in education, particularly in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) approach. Its vast collection of scientific articles, journals, conferences and patents provides researchers with access to a wide and diverse range of relevant studies. Scopus' ability to provide a comprehensive and up-to-date view of the development and implementation of the STEAM approach is crucial. Methodology: Using advanced bibliometric search and analysis tools, researchers can identify emerging patterns, evaluate pedagogical methodologies, and recognize areas that require further attention. In addition, Scopus facilitates the detection of international collaborations and the identification of leaders in STEAM research, allowing educators and policymakers to make decisions based on solid evidence and current trends. Results: In this bibliometric analysis of publications in Scopus between 2010 and 2024, the terms Educational approach STEAM, STEAM approach and STEAM were used as search metadata, yielding 254,303 results. After applying filters, 263 documents directly related to STEAM were selected. The results, analyzed using Vosviewer, revealed six affinity clusters based on keyword recurrence. Terms associated with STEAM include transdisciplinarity, instructional design, pedagogy, and technology. STEAM education is linked to teacher education, computational thinking, and art education. STEM relates to science and educational robotics. Primary education encompasses preschool and secondary education, comprehensive education, and inquiry-based design. Less frequently, the nodes education and teaching are associated with curriculum, science education, motivation, and pedagogical methods. Conclusion: This keyword analysis demonstrates the wide range of competencies and terms associated with STEAM, providing valuable information for identifying key competencies in this educational approach.