The current state of STEM education in selected lower secondary schools in Hanoi: Challenges and opportunities in implementation

This study investigates the current state of STEM education in lower secondary schools in Hanoi, with a focus on the challenges, opportunities, and support needs faced by teachers and administrators during implementation. Using a structured survey distributed to 77 participants, including 40 teachers and 15 school leaders, the research explores three core areas: the status of STEM integration, existing barriers, and professional development needs. Results indicate that while teachers recognize the importance of STEM education and show a willingness to adopt it, they face significant obstacles such as limited resources, inadequate training, and difficulties in interdisciplinary integration. Despite these challenges, the demand for further support and training is high, highlighting the urgent need for institutional and policy-level interventions. The findings provide practical insights for educational policymakers, school administrators, and curriculum developers aiming to promote effective and sustainable STEM teaching practices in Vietnamese schools.