Exploring the limits of knowing and discovering Reverence: the fundamental shift from STEAM to CREATIVE learning

Authors

  • Shane Theunissen Mount Saint Vincent University
  • Robyn Ashley Mount Saint Vincent University
  • Megan MacLeod West Island College International

Abstract

This article explores a transformative shift in science education from the traditional STEAM model to a CREATIVE framework, emphasizing Calculation, Reverence, Environment, Art, Technology, Innovation, Values, and Engineering. The authors utilize personal narratives underpinned by theory to operationalize Reverence as an elemental relational virtue fostering ecological consciousness. Through concepts like friluftsliv and environmental relationality, they advocate for nurturing awe, responsibility, and a sacred connection to land and sea. The CREATIVE model aims to inspire educational practices that honour interdependence, challenge anthropocentrism, and cultivate a reverent, sustainable way of being in and with the world.

Author Biographies

  • Shane Theunissen, Mount Saint Vincent University
    Assistant professor, Child and Youth Study.
  • Robyn Ashley, Mount Saint Vincent University

    I am currently a doctoral student in Educational Studies and live in Nova Scotia, a Canadian province located in Mi’kma’ki, the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq Nation. I have had the privilege to work as an early childhood educator, a research coordinator, and study outdoor and nature play in early childhood settings on this land. The intentions of my work lie in my passion to support educators and young children in fostering pedagogies and relationships that value nature as an active learning partner and remove Eurocentric dominance in our ways of being with the natural world.

  • Megan MacLeod, West Island College International

    I am an educator and administrator with the blue ocean sailing, tall ship based, high school, Class Afloat. She has accompanied students on eight trans-Atlantic sail crossings and over 60,000 nautical miles. Her teaching and school management are guided by the belief that understanding the ocean as an integral part of our planet and human experience is essential for students to care for it.

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Published

2026-08-05

Issue

Vol. 27 (2026)

Section

Articles

License

The Canadian Journal of Environmental Education retains the copyright for published articles. Please contact the editors to request an alternate arrangement.