The What and Why of STEM Education?

 STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Acquiring STEM skills today and in tomorrow's future are essential for the growth and success of countries in the global marketplace.  
Ideally, STEM education should begin in early childhood when children are curious and creative.  STEM education should continue through college. All children, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or learning style, can excel in STEM disciplines and can aspire to STEM careers. Effective teaching at all levels utilizes hands-on, minds-on inquiry into the natural world. When a student has the opportunity to discover on their own through hands-on, experiential learning, they become engaged, excited and inspired.  

Many industries employ STEM skills. Examples are as follows:
  • Architecture
  • Urban development and city planning
  • Medical research 
  • Sustainable energy and power
  • It is impossible to find a part of society that does not, in some way, interact with these subjects, and since so many of these industries are coordinated by or connected to our government at some level, it is safe to say that the very governing of our country depends on them. 
Teaching STEM to today's students is vital to the success of any country and a strong curriculum should be developed around these subjects.  Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders. Occupations in STEM-related careers are some of the fastest growing and best paid of the 21st century, and they often have the greatest potential for job growth. It is essential for our country to remain competitive in the fields of science, technology, medicine, and all of the other STEM fields. The best way to ensure future success and longevity it is to make sure that students are well versed in these subjects. Building a solid STEM foundation through a well-rounded curriculum is the best way to ensure that students are exposed to math, science, and technology throughout their educational career.

STEM infomation adapted and provided by various US sources