You’ve probably heard about STEM—an acronym for science, technology, engineering and math. But have you heard about STEAM? The “A” stands for arts/design.
Research shows that when you add art to science learning, something amazing happens.
“Artistic activities not only make STEM subjects more engaging but also foster a broader appreciation for the arts,” notes an article in Creative Education by two university professors. “Art-integrated STEM education can nurture several key sources of self-efficacy…[and] the playful, low-pressure atmosphere of art-integrated lessons helps reduce anxiety and stress."
Best of all, STEAM can be a lot of fun. The Museum presents new STEAM activities every month as part of ExxonMobil MindFest. In April, children created art with pendulums, sending paint across a giant canvas as they learned about gravity. Last Saturday, visitors played a creative game of tic-tac-toe in which they launched their pieces at a game board.
ExxonMobil MindFest is one of the many ways that the Museum ensures that every visit has new opportunities to explore, and that all children see themselves as confident, capable learners.
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May 3, 2026
You’ve probably heard about STEM—an acronym for science, technology, engineering and math. But have you heard about STEAM? The “A” stands for arts/design.
Research shows that when you add art to science learning, something amazing happens.
“Artistic activities not only make STEM subjects more engaging but also foster a broader appreciation for the arts,” notes an article in Creative Education by two university professors. “Art-integrated STEM education can nurture several key sources of self-efficacy…[and] the playful, low-pressure atmosphere of art-integrated lessons helps reduce anxiety and stress."
Best of all, STEAM can be a lot of fun. The Museum presents new STEAM activities every month as part of ExxonMobil MindFest. In April, children created art with pendulums, sending paint across a giant canvas as they learned about gravity. Last Saturday, visitors played a creative game of tic-tac-toe in which they launched their pieces at a game board.
ExxonMobil MindFest is one of the many ways that the Museum ensures that every visit has new opportunities to explore, and that all children see themselves as confident, capable learners.
