Designing a Set of Web-Based Simulations to Facilitate STEAM Activities on How to Travel From Earth to Mars

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors analyze a subject that is suitable for STEAM education and design a set of web-based simulations and material for blended learning to support STEAM activities on how to travel from Earth to Mars. Interplanetary travel involves astronomy, biology, and physics for science; technology to make it possible; engineering to optimize a possible solution; art to produce artwork based on the orbits of planets and boost creativity; and mathematics to solve the differential equations, obtain data, and perform data analysis to reach conclusions. Based on the ADDIE model, the presently related and available simulations were analyzed and based on that analysis a set of streamlined simulations are proposed, designed, developed, implemented, and evaluated. Similarly, a didactic sequence was implemented. The evaluation of the didactic sequence and the streamlined simulations by expert educators testifies that the proposed method to create STEAM inquiry and simulation-based activities is productive and can be used with a variety of interesting STEAM integration subjects.