Promoting Inclusive Accounting Education through the Integration of Stem Principles for a Diverse Classroom

Abstract

In recent times, accounting education has explored many innovative approaches to address the collective needs of students. Integrating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) principles in accounting education promises an increased potential for technology-driven solutions, enhanced learning strategies, and inclusivity. This study investigated the effects of integrating STEM principles into accounting education. The specific objective was to understand the impact of STEM integration on student engagement, academic performance, diversity, and inclusivity within accounting programs. The study adopts quantitative methods, using surveys to collect primary data from 342 respondents ranging from lecturers, teachers, and students, while Linear regression was used to test the hypotheses. The study revealed a positive relationship between STEM integration and student academic performance and engagement. Results also showed that integrating STEM principles into accounting education positively impacted inclusivity and attracted a diverse classroom. The study recommends that accounting education policymakers develop a curriculum that aptly incorporates STEM concepts into accounting courses that would appeal to students from diverse backgrounds, and the accounting faculty of tertiary institutions should play a vital role in STEM integration and inclusivity by undertaking training sessions on STEM-related skills, inclusive teaching methods, and cultural sensitivity.

Keywords: Accounting education, STEM integration, student engagement, academic performance, diversity, inclusivity, learning strategies, curriculum development