Developing Elementary School Students' Creativity through the Implementation of a STEAM-Based Waste Recycling Project in Integrated Science and Social Studies (IPAS)

Authors

  • Nada Ayu Lestari Universitas Graha Karya Muara Bulian, Indonesia
  • Muhammad Yatim Universitas Graha Karya Muara Bulian, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56207/iraono.v4i2.237

Keywords:

STEAM, waste recycling project, students' creativity, integrated science and social studies (IPAS), elementary school

Abstract

This study aims to describe the implementation of a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) based waste recycling project in Integrated Science and Social Studies (IPAS) learning to foster the creativity of fifth grade students at SD Negeri 106/1 Pelayangan. This research employed a qualitative approach using a descriptive research design. The research participants consisted of the school principal, the fifth grade teacher, and fifth grade students. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi structured interviews, and documentation, and were analyzed using the stages of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The trustworthiness of the data was ensured through source triangulation and technique triangulation. The findings revealed that the implementation of the STEAM-based waste recycling project was carried out in three stages: planning, implementation, and evaluation. The project successfully fostered students' creativity, as demonstrated by their ability to generate original ideas, elaborate on concepts, solve problems, produce diverse creative products, and collaborate effectively in groups. The successful implementation was supported by students' enthusiasm, the teacher's role as a facilitator, collaborative teamwork among students, and the availability of recyclable materials. However, several challenges were identified, including limited instructional time, differences in students' abilities, and technical difficulties encountered during product development. Therefore, the STEAM based waste recycling project can serve as an alternative instructional approach in Integrated Science and Social Studies (IPAS), promoting active, contextual, and meaningful learning while enhancing elementary school students' creativity. Keywords: STEAM, waste recycling project, students' creativity, Integrated Science and Social Studies (IPAS), elementary school

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Published

2026-07-28

How to Cite

Lestari, N. A., & Yatim, M. (2026). Developing Elementary School Students’ Creativity through the Implementation of a STEAM-Based Waste Recycling Project in Integrated Science and Social Studies (IPAS). IRAONO: Journal of Elementary and Childhood Education, 4(2), 47–54. https://doi.org/10.56207/iraono.v4i2.237

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Section

Articles