5 reasons why STEM education is important
I could sit here and give you 500 reasons why STEM education is important. STEM is an interdisciplinary approach that helps students succeed in college and in their future careers. The focus of a STEM education is hands-on, problem-based learning and critical in the advancement of science and technology in the modern day world.
What is STEM education?
Okay let’s break it down. STEM is a powerful concept because it’s been hailed as critical for the future. The future for our families, the future for our children, diversity, the workforce and the economy. And there’s barely scratching the surface.
That’s why STEM education has received hundreds of millions of dollars in support from governments worldwide and remains one of the biggest priorities at all levels of the educational system.
It would be inaccurate to assume that STEM education is merely instruction in the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics as the acronym suggests. The idea of STEM should actually be taken a step further.
STEM education refers to the integration of the four subjects into a cohesive, interdisciplinary and applied learning approach. This isn’t academic theory. STEM education includes the appropriate real-world application and teaching methods necessary for our digitised workforce.
As a result, students in any subject can benefit from STEM education. It’s extremely broad, let me say that! That’s exactly why some educators and organisations refer to it as STEAM, which adds in arts or other creative subjects. They recognise just how powerful the philosophy behind STEM education can be for students.
The importance simply cannot be overstated which is why I take every possible opportunity to encourage young minds in STEM education. Whether that means volunteering a little bit of my time at a local school or posting blogs such as this - my passion for the education of STEM is pretty obvious.
5 reasons why STEM education is important
I’ve explained what STEM education is. But why is it important? Take a look at these 5 reasons why STEM education is important, particularly from an early age. Each of these reasons highlight just how critical an education in STEM will be moving forward for the next generation.
1. Innovative possibilities
Whether you're drawn to traditional STEM programs or tend to gravitate toward other subjects, the skills that you can strengthen through STEM learning can be carried over into art, sports, baking, communication, entrepreneurship, literature, or whatever you want it to translate to.
By practicing creative problem solving and an innovative way of thinking, you can have fun exploring a multitude of interests while applying key STEM concepts.
It’s said that 80% of jobs over the next decade will require STEM skills. That’s an overwhelming majority! STEM careers truly engulf such a wide variety of pathways.
Equipped with STEM skills, you could become a food scientist ensuring our health and safety; a technical writer communicating concepts behind the next wave of technology; a sound engineer helping to craft the next hit pop song; an automotive engineer transforming transportation as we know it; a wildlife biologist supporting habitat conservation; a video game programmer launching the next gaming sensation; an astronomer expanding our knowledge of the universe; or a psychologist advancing our understanding of ourselves. Talk about being spoiled for choice!
There really is no limit to where a STEM career can take you.
2. Inspiring the next generation
From summer camps, to after school programs, to activities you can do at home, there are so many opportunities to prioritise STEM experiences for your child as they explore their creative potential from a young age.
STEM professionals are constantly working on inspiring the younger generation to a career within the STEM industry. And you can see why.
Another aspect that’s particularly important in STEM education is bringing more women into the field, and normalising this in schools. STEM jobs are not just for boys, and more work needs to be done in the education system (as well as in society) to change this mindset.
3. Explorative skills that you can learn
Hands on STEM programs and activities teach more than science and mathematics concepts. They can truly help you to discover real-world applications, spark your creativity and develop 21st-century skills.
STEM learning also promotes critical thinking, curiosity, persistence, decision-making, leadership, entrepreneurship, acceptance of failure and more. As I alluded to earlier - I could give 500 reasons why STEM education is important!
Regardless of your career aspirations, the skill sets associated with STEM education will inevitably go a long way in preparing you for a successful future.
4. Fosters creativity
Every single one of us has creativity instilled within ourselves. For some - it’s easier to show. However we do all have it.
Alongside natural critical thinking, STEM activities, lessons and education naturally encourage students to think creatively and find unique solutions. In a way, you are forced out of your comfort zone. But don’t worry, it’s a good kind of force.
So many great STEM workers have come up with their own brilliant and innovative ideas and it all stemmed (pun intended) from their own creativity.
5. Boosts curiosity
This is without a doubt one of the most vital parts of STEM education. Students who are made habitual of this type of education since childhood, develop curiosity and innovation as their regular habits. It has become the norm.
This type of education enhances the critical way of thinking and empowers us to ask questions. Once we ask questions, more often than not we get answers.
STEM education workshops
Wherever you are in the world and whatever level of education you're at; there’s a workshop or training that you can attend to deepen your understanding of STEM education. Places to come together with like minded individuals, share ideas and embrace this wonderful field that we all work in together.
Whether you’re looking for a small, intimate training or a large-scale, hands-on workshop experience, there’s usually options to suit everyone's needs. STEM workshops traditionally include challenging and inspiring work while also being fun.
Conclusion
“The best preparation for tomorrow is doing your best today”. H. Jackson Brown Jr said these words. And I resonate with them. And I think it fully encapsulated the importance of a STEM education.
STEM education is constantly preparing students for extremely high demand careers. Fostering a passion for STEM can lead students down lucrative, life-changing paths. The salary is high, the quality of life is high and the reward is even higher. Not only that but STEM careers are estimated to increase by over 10% by 2030, with non-STEM occupations only seeing a growth of 4.9% in that time.
No matter what STEM field you are preparing to pursue, you’ll be sure to find a role, and a pretty high salary to match.