STEM Education at Schools–Needs, Importance and Benefits
STEM is a pedagogical approach. STEM integrates science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Living in a VUCA world demands more skills and an integrated approach to handle different challenges, to respond and to resolve them quickly. STEM is an integrated approach of learning to fulfil the demands of Globalized world.
Importance of STEM- Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics
21st century world needs more skilled, more proficient and more efficient manpower. We are living in a fast growing world. STEM creates skilled man power who perceives challenge as an opportunity. Industries are looking for STEM skilled manpower. Jobs exist but the nature of jobs has changed in 21st century world due to technological advancement.
Digital Literacy- STEM- Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics
Computer literacy was more demanding in the 2010 decade, but we are looking for Coding, AI and other things. STEM shapes a learner to succeed at school and beyond the educational world. STEM provides strong foundation skills in science and mathematics. STEM develops critical analysis, creativity and problem solving skills among students. STEM prepares students to take initiative, work in a team and lead the team as a visionary leader.
STEM at School-Need and Importance
School integrates STEM activities across learning areas which are suitable to age appropriate and appropriate to students learning temperament. STEM provides adequate learning opportunities to explore and to develop different skills to survive in 21st century VUCA world. Generally industries are looking for analytical skills, scientific skills, mathematical skills and technical skills from graduates for leading the institutions in more productive ways.
STEM Oriented Career Options
Experts say that 75 % of job opportunities will be created in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. A large number of emerging careers in STEM fields are open for students across the world. Students have a number of career opportunities in the field of “environmental studies, other natural and physical sciences, fisheries studies, engineering and its related technologies, information technology, earth sciences, forestry studies, biological sciences, agriculture, horticulture etc, therefore 21st century are looking forward for more qualified and skilled persons in the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
STEM helps students to develop expertise in the various fields especially animals production systems, aviation, marine and maritime studies, plant production systems, applied information technology, automotive engineering and technology, building and constructions, material design and technology, primary industries, mathematics specialist, mathematics applications etc.
The Skills –STEM- Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics
21st century students require a positive attitude for lifelong learning. Today it is required to be a knowledge hunger and skill hunter. It is required to have resilience and agility for leading an organization. STEM prepares an individual to be an integrated skilled professional. STEM prepares 21st century students to become skilled human power.
Key Words:- STEM Education, Benefits of STEM Education, Importance of STEM Education, Facts of STEM Education, STEM Education Curriculum, STEM Curriculum, STEM Education at Primary Level, STEM education at Secondary Level
Rajeev Ranjan
Principal, Teacher Trainer