Enhancing interdisciplinary STEM education through CNC technology: Integrating disciplines in engineering instruction

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology is widely applied in manufacturing, yet most commercial machines are designed for industrial use and are not well-suited for education. This study develops a specialized tool for educational applications of CNC technology and evaluates its effectiveness through interdisciplinary STEM-based instruction. The research combines physics, mathematics, chemistry, and computer science, linking theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Theoretical analysis examined CNC principles and their relation to the four disciplines, while practical work involved producing components with CNC machines to apply these principles in real contexts. Students’ perceptions were assessed using statistical methods. The findings indicate that interdisciplinary instruction with CNC technology enhances academic knowledge, strengthens practical skills, promotes problem-solving in engineering and scientific processes, and fosters critical thinking, thereby preparing students for real-world industrial environments.