The Benefits and Challenges of Using the Demonstration Method in STEM Education: A Systematic Literature Review

The education field has been striving to develop STEM teaching and learning methodologies that effectively integrate subject knowledge across disciplines and connect it to daily life. Many teachers believe that practical work can help students better grasp abstract concepts. However, they often hesitate to incorporate practical work due to constraints, such as limited resources and a lack of experimental skills among students. As a result, demonstrations are frequently used as an alternative. This study presents the findings of a systematic literature review conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, analyzing the advantages, disadvantages, and potential enhancements of using the demonstration method in STEM education. After examining 49 relevant studies, this review identified 15 benefits and 14 challenges associated with the demonstration method, encompassing their impact on students, teachers, and operational aspects. Additionally, six key components were discovered that enhance the efficacy of the demonstration method. Based on the findings, recommendations are proposed for policymakers, universities, and schools to improve the implementation and outcomes of demonstration-based teaching and learning in STEM education.