The Importance of STEM Education
STEM…STEAM… we’ve all heard these acronyms for years. What do they stand for? And why are they important?
The education sector has identified the need to build world-class talent in science and mathematics. From K-12 to Higher Education, lawmakers, universities, and companies are now developing innovative strategies to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education. These strategies include project-based learning, interdisciplinary approaches, and the integration of technology. And let’s not forget about the Arts!
Why STEAM and not STEM? When the STEM curriculum was implemented, teachers noticed a fundamental learning discrepancy once STEM programs were adopted. Students could not think critically and utilize multiple methods of inquiry and investigation. The addition of Arts in STEAM addresses this gap, providing a holistic approach that fosters creativity and critical thinking alongside scientific and mathematical skills.
Leonardo Da Vince said it best: ‘To develop a complete mind, Study the science of art; study the art of science. Learn how to see. Realize that everything connects to everything else.’
Integrating the Arts was added to enhance and enrich STEM classrooms. This integration reassures parents and educators that the holistic development of students is being prioritized.
STEAM programming is a transformative approach that equips students with the ability to think creatively, use critical thinking, innovate, problem solve and collaborate, among many other skills. Who wouldn’t want that?! It has been proven that students who participate in STEAM curricula are more likely to succeed in STEM and STEAM-related fields, paving the way for a brighter future. This transformative power of STEAM education should inspire and motivate educators and policymakers to embrace this approach.
STEAM fosters the natural innovation that comes with converging the mind of an artist or designer with a technologist or scientist. For instance, a biology class could incorporate art by having students create scientific illustrations, or a physics class could use music to explore the concept of sound waves. STEAM encourages students to collaborate by leveraging soft and hard skills to understand a STEM concept. This out-of-the-box thinking uses tools such as fine art imagery or data visualization to deepen one’s understanding of STEM.
It is estimated that over 3.5 million STEM jobs will be available by 2025 in the US.
Students graduating from a STEM/STEAM school can expect to be well-prepared for the future job market. With a wide range of employment opportunities across various industries, a STEM/STEAM education ensures a promising career path, regardless of the type of degree and concentration.
The job marketplace is indeed evolving, and education is adapting to these changes. By providing a STEAM based curriculum, schools are not just preparing students for what lies ahead when they graduate, but also instilling in them the adaptability and versatility needed to thrive in any career. This well-rounded education will not only open doors for them in the work force, but also empower them to make significant contributions to their communities, which is the ultimate success for everyone.
Written By: Meredith Biesinger
Professional Writer/ Education Specialist
Meredith Biesinger is a licensed dyslexia therapist in Mississippi, in addition to being an experienced classroom teacher and K-12 administrator. Meredith also works as a consultant, where she bridges the bridge the gap between K-12 school districts and ed-tech organizations. With a passion for literacy, she is also a professional writer and syndicated author. With a M.Ed in Educational Leadership and a B.S. in English Education and Creative Writing, she has had rich and diverse opportunities to teach students and education professionals in different parts of the country as well as overseas.
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