STEM-based teaching strategies for children with autism spectrum disorder
Laura A. Butabayeva 1 * , Saltanat K. Abildina 2 , Aigerim A. Makhmetova 3 , Aidana K. Taibolatova 4 , Barysgul Y. Kenges 4 , Shynar M. Ussenbayeva 5
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1 National Academy of Education named after I. Altynsarin, Astana, KAZAKHSTAN2 Department of Pedagogy and Methodology of Primary Education, Karaganda Buketov University, Karaganda, KAZAKHSTAN3 Department of Science, National Scientific and Practical Center for the Development of Special and Inclusive Education, Almaty, KAZAKHSTAN4 Center for Inclusive Education, National Academy of Education named after Y. Altynsarin, Astana, KAZAKHSTAN5 Department of Special Pedagogy, Kazakh National Women’s Pedagogical University, Almaty, KAZAKHSTAN* Corresponding Author

Abstract

This review article examines effective science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) -based teaching strategies designed to support children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in educational settings. With the growing global emphasis on STEM education, it is essential to create inclusive learning environments that address the needs of neurodiverse learners. The article synthesizes findings from recent studies on how structured, visual, and technology-assisted instructional strategies enhance academic achievement, conceptual understanding, engagement, communication, and skills. 24 studies were included in the systematic review based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results show that demonstration-guided practice, independent practice, and technology-based interventions were most commonly used in the reviewed studies. Additionally, most studies were conducted in Western and European contexts. The research indicates that STEM interventions for learners with ASD are effective in improving academic skills and subject knowledge in challenging subjects such as science and mathematics. The findings also show that STEM programs enhance social skills, including joint attention, peer communication, and group participation, contributing to social and behavioral improvements. Overall, the evidence suggests that STEM teaching is beneficial and effective for students with ASD in learning STEM topics. Further studies are needed to explore the effectiveness of STEM teaching to students with ASD in developing and underdeveloped countries and middle and high school education.

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This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Article Type: Literature Review

EURASIA J Math Sci Tech Ed, Volume 22, Issue 7, July 2026, Article No: em2856

https://doi.org/10.29333/ejmste/18741

Publication date: 10 Jun 2026

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