Preservice Elementary Teachers’ Perceptions of Integrated STEM After Participating in an Integrated STEAM Course

(1) Background: Although integrated STEM education is an important policy focus, teacher preparation to implement high-quality integrated STEM and STEAM learning experiences in an equitable manner is not widespread. Teacher beliefs significantly impact how they teach; therefore, this study explores preservice teachers’ self-reported perceptions of teaching integrated STEM after participating in an integrated STEAM course. (2) Methods: We employed qualitative methods to explore 47 preservice elementary teachers’ perceptions about teaching integrated STEM based on their lived experiences in an integrated STEAM course. Guided by our conceptual framework, we used deductive methods to better understand preservice elementary teachers’ perceptions. We also used open coding to understand their lived experiences in the course. Pattern coding was used in the second cycle to identify themes. (3) Findings: Three primary themes emerged, including understanding integrated STEM frameworks through a transdisciplinary and critical lens; perceiving STEAM is engaging because it is relevant; and developing self-efficacy for future STEAM integration without infrastructure. (4) Conclusions: Although preservice elementary teachers had positive experiences in the course and believe integrated STEM and STEAM to be important, more work is needed to develop their understanding of equitable integrated STEM and STEAM instruction.