In an increasingly technology-driven world, fostering creativity and critical thinking skills among primary school students has become imperative. This research project aims to address the identified gap in creative thinking abilities among local school students in Hong Kong, which are reportedly lower than those of their peers in other Asian countries. To combat this issue, we propose an innovative educational intervention that combines coding with the construction of microbit electronic musical instruments. This hands-on approach not only engages students in a fun and interactive manner but also serves as a vehicle for developing essential 21st-century skills, including collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking.

The study seeks to explore the impact of this creative intervention on student engagement, coding proficiency, and attitudes toward STEAM subjects. By integrating music and technology, students will participate in a project-based learning experience that encourages them to think critically and creatively while applying coding concepts to solve real-world problems. The construction of musical instruments will provide students with tangible outcomes, enhancing their understanding of abstract coding principles and fostering a sense of achievement.

Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research will collect both quantitative and qualitative data to assess changes in student engagement, coding skills, and creative thinking competencies before and after the intervention. Pre- and post-intervention surveys will measure student interest in STEAM, their engagement levels, and their attitudes toward coding. Additionally, assessments of coding skills and creativity will be conducted to gauge the effectiveness of this intervention. Semi-structured interviews with a subset of participants will provide qualitative insights into their experiences and perceptions. The findings are anticipated to provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers, highlighting effective pedagogical strategies that promote engagement and creativity in STEAM education. By creating an environment that encourages collaboration and sharing, this project aims to establish a model for integrating innovative teaching methods into the curriculum, ultimately enhancing the overall educational experience for students.

In conclusion, this research endeavors to not only improve coding skills and creative thinking among primary school students but also to equip them with the essential 21st-century skills necessary for success in the modern world. The implications of this study extend beyond the classroom, offering a framework for fostering creativity and engagement in STEAM education that can be shared with educators globally. By bridging the gap between coding and creativity through the construction of musical instruments, we aspire to inspire a new generation of learners who are equipped to navigate the complexities of an ever-evolving technological landscape.

Keywords: STEM, STEAM, Critical Thinking, Creativity, Design-based learning, Project-based learning, 21st Century Skill, Pedagogy.