Research article | Open Access
TAY Journal 2025, Vol. 9(2) 318-346
The Effect of STEAM-Based Music Activities on Students’ Critical Thinking Dispositions
pp. 318 - 346 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.29329/tayjournal.2025.1290.05
Publish Date: July 31, 2025 | Single/Total View: 0/0 | Single/Total Download: 0/0
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics [STEAM] approach in music lesson activities on students’ critical thinking dispositions. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analyzed using a mixed method with a nested design. The study group consisted of 37 tenth grade students in an Anatolian high school and six STEAM field experts (physics, biology, mathematics, music, visual arts, information technologies) from school teachers. The implementation period lasted eight weeks in total. The study’s quantitative data were obtained through the pre-test-post-test comparison of the UF/EMI Critical Thinking Disposition Scale forms. The quantitative findings revealed that students made significant progress in their critical thinking dispositions, as reflected in the positive changes between the pre-test and post-test scores. The qualitative data obtained from the teacher and student interviews of this study support the critical thinking skills of students in the STEAM approach in music lesson activities. In line with the quantitative and qualitative findings, it was suggested to provide better time management in the activities, increase diversity, give more freedom and responsibility to students, encourage group work, increase the richness of materials, and develop new measurement tools. The originality of this research lies in its comprehensive evaluation of the impact of STEAM-integrated music education on critical thinking, contributing valuable insights to the existing literature, particularly regarding the integration of art-based disciplines like music. These findings not only emphasize the effectiveness of the STEAM approach in fostering critical thinking but also highlight the importance of interdisciplinary practices in nurturing 21st century skills.
Keywords: Music education, STEAM approach, critical thinking tendency
APA 7th edition
Guney, S., & Sever, G. (2025). The Effect of STEAM-Based Music Activities on Students’ Critical Thinking Dispositions. TAY Journal, 9(2), 318-346. https://doi.org/10.29329/tayjournal.2025.1290.05
Harvard
Guney, S. and Sever, G. (2025). The Effect of STEAM-Based Music Activities on Students’ Critical Thinking Dispositions. TAY Journal, 9(2), pp. 318-346.
Chicago 16th edition
Guney, Saniye and Gulsah Sever (2025). "The Effect of STEAM-Based Music Activities on Students’ Critical Thinking Dispositions". TAY Journal 9 (2):318-346. https://doi.org/10.29329/tayjournal.2025.1290.05
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