STEM as an Inclusive Approach to Educational Equity: A Qualitative Case Study in an Austrian Primary School

This qualitative case study explores the implementation of an inclusive STEM-based approach to gifted education in an Austrian primary public school. Moving beyond traditional models that rely on selective identification, this programme fosters the potential of all students through weekly hands-on experimentation sessions. The study, based on interviews, focus groups, classroom observations, and data analysis, reveals that STEM education enhances creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration, leading to more equitable learning opportunities. Findings highlight the need for rethinking gifted education to ensure broader access and the importance of teacher training in fostering inclusive talent development in line with modern educational equity principles.