No one doubts that science and technology

play a major role in sustaining our 21st century

lifestyle, but the educational system hasnt
always emphasized this fact. In recent years
an educational movement has arisen that aims
to introduce young students to the various
aspects of STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, Mathematics). Lets take a closer
look at the STEM education movement.

What Is
STEM?
STEM is an acronym for Science,
Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
Devised in 2001 by Dr. Judith Ramaley, the term
has won widespread acceptance as a convenient
way of referring to these academic disciplines.
Trivia: The introduction of STEM as the preferred
acronym led to the retirement of SMET, which had
referred to the same concept.

The Need for STEM Education

The demand for reliable
workers with STEM-related
skills will only increase with
time. According to the National
Science Foundation,
approximately 80% of jobs that
will be created over the next
decade will demand the use of
math and/or science skills.

In response to this growing demand, the Obama

administration allocated $3.1 billion for
STEM education in its 2014 budget.

Overview of STEM Education

STEM education is a
new trend that
emphasizes teaching
Science, Technology,
Engineering, and
Mathematics in an
integrated manner. Its
intended to give
students a thorough
grounding in STEM
starting at an early age.

Of course, science and math

have been a part of the
educational system for
generations. So how is so-called
STEM education different from
the traditional kind?

STEM Education

vs.

Traditional Education

Traditionally it has been the practice to teach the four STEM

components more or less separately from one another.
By contrast, STEM education emphasizes an integrated
approach that underscores the interrelationship of science,
technology, engineering, and mathematics.

STEM education
emphasizes student
exploration and problem
solving as opposed to
rote learning.

STEM Education
Elementary School
With STEM education,
students during their
elementary school years will
be introduced to the basic
concepts associated with
science, technology,
engineering, and mathematics.
Students also become
acquainted with the range of
STEM-related occupations.

At this stage, the emphasis is on stimulating

student interest in STEM subjects.

STEM Education
Middle School

STEM courses
become increasingly
complex as
students' intellectual
capacity continues
to grow.

Additionally, students become

familiar with the requirements of
entering STEM-related careers.

During this phase, the educational process also emphasizes

encouraging students from groups underrepresented in STEM
fields (e.g., women) to learn about these careers.

STEM Education
High School
STEM education at this stage
directs students toward
opportunities in STEM occupations
and continued education at the
collegiate level.

High school STEM

courses continue to
increase in complexity.
Students also increasingly combine in-class and extracurricular
STEM educational opportunities.

http://thepostoncollective.com/2013/05/15/the-stem-acronym-hasbecome-a-policy-nightmare/
http://www.stemschool.com/articles/what-is-stem-education/
http://drpfconsults.com/understanding-the-basics-of-stem-education/
http://www.education.com/reference/article/what-stem-educationscience-technology/
http://www.livescience.com/43296-what-is-stem-education.html

About Ganesh Machinery

Established in 1985, Ganesh Machinery has become a leading
manufacturer of industrial machines. The company's line of
products includes lathes, screw machines, mills, turning
centers, and more. Ganesh Machinery is headquartered in
Chatsworth, California.

For more information, visit www.ganeshmachinery.com.