The TU Delft Science Centre is currently renewing its programming, including the development of new workshops for children aged 8 to 12 years, named Techniek Studio. The Science Centre’s main goal is to create fun experiences that spark a lasting interest in technology and innovation. However, how to achieve such meaningful engagement remains unclear. This design research project responded with the following design challenge: “Discover how to develop a STEAM-based workshop that provides children 8 - 12 years old with a meaningful experience at the TU Delft Science Centre”

Using a Research Through Design approach, the project combined literature review, expert interviews, and observations to formulate 14 initial design guidelines. These guidelines were organised across the three experiential phases: before, during, and after the workshop. They included initial actionable points and instructional support. It also incorporates the on literature- based designed ‘experience layers model’, which guides goal setting and evaluation.

A case study was performed, which included the development and testing of the ‘Experiementing with Art’ workshop. Through this case study, the guidelines and supportive elements were refined. This process led to the design of ‘The STEAMingful Design Tool’, a detailed, practical booklet for workshop design. Evaluation of the test workshop with the ‘experience layers model’ indicated that participants gained meaningful insights on both the topic and the use of the materials of the workshop. However, the longer-term impact on sustained interest remains uncertain.

Expert reviews on the tool suggest that the tool effectively supports novice designers but recommend adapting the tool for more experienced users.

Ultimately, this project delivers both a tested STEAM- based workshop and a research-informed design tool that holds promise for fostering meaningful STEAM-based out-of-school learning experiences. Future research by independent workshop developers is recommended to examine the long-term effects of using the tool on children’s level of experience. This will also further validate the applicability of the tool outside the Science Centre.