This edited volume examines the intersection of research and practice in STEM education by presenting empirically grounded examples developed by research groups across Europe. Bringing together contributions from researchers and practitioners, the book investigates how STEM approaches can be meaningfully integrated into diverse educational contexts. The chapters address critical gaps in research-based evidence on STEM pedagogy, the epistemological underpinnings of STEM education, and the design of innovative curricula and pedagogical models that support teacher professional development. Collectively, the volume offers a comprehensive resource that advances scholarly understanding of STEM education while providing educators with research-informed insights to enhance student engagement and learning in real-world settings.

Maria Evagorou is a Professor of Science Education at the Department of Education, University of Nicosia, Cyprus. Maria has been involved in various research projects related to STEM education, with an emphasis on maintaining teachers’ and students’ interest in STEM and aspiring students to follow careers in STEM professions. Furthermore, through the engagement with STEM education Maria aims to promote responsible citizenship and inclusiveness, especially in terms of gender in STEM.
 
Gultekin Cakmakci began his career as a chemical engineer before moving into science education research. He is currently a Professor of Science Education at Hacettepe University, where he teaches courses on STEM education and public engagement in STEM. His research interests include design thinking, engineering education, promoting scientific literacy among students and the general public, and the design, implementation, and evaluation of STEM instruction. He, among others, helped develop the Turkish Science Curriculum, which was implemented in Türkiye between 2017 and 2023. He also served as Deputy Chair of the Research & Innovation Coordination Board at Hacettepe University from 2023 to 2025. 

Katja Maaß is the director of the International Centre for STEM Education (ICSE) at the University of Education Freiburg, Germany since 2017. Professor Maaß has played a central role in coordinating several large-scale European projects that address research, material development, and the broad dissemination of innovative STEM teaching and learning approaches. Prof. Dr. Katja Maaß founded the International Centre for STEM Education (ICSE) at the University of Education Freiburg. ICSE has a consortium of 18 Partners in 16 European Countries and aims to enhance STEM education.