Understanding the Factors Influencing the Work of Middle Years iSTEM Teacher Leaders

Abstract

Financial, educational and political imperatives have driven the uptake of integrated science, technology, engineering, mathematics (iSTEM) education by many schools. Aiming to increase student interest and achievement, iSTEM education is seen as a vehicle for engaging students in STEM subjects, courses, and careers. However, like many novel educational approaches, its success in schools would likely benefit from leadership support. Research has begun to explore the characteristics of iSTEM teacher leaders, yet there is limited understanding of what factors influence their success/ effectiveness. To provide further insight, the research question explored in this study is: What factors influe..