“To succeed in this new information-based and highly technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in STEM to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past.”- National Science Foundation
STEM is a method of learning and development which integrates the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths. As we live in a society which is technologically advancing by the minute, it is ideal that the youth participates in STEM-related subjects or commitments. STEM is an open career path which requires abundant skills that will fulfil the prerequisites of diverse occupations. We, as members of this progressing society, are exposed to STEM-related concepts in our everyday lives and STEM can set students up for prosperous futures. At a recent Moreton Bay STEM Fest, there was over one hundred participants from across the Moreton Bay region, however, this number can undoubtedly be increased. STEM has the aptitude to bridge ethnic and gender barriers which are evident in science and maths fields of study.
Skills acquired by partaking in STEM can be applied to real world applications which can preserve the natural state of the environment which surrounds us. Currently, the change of weather patterns is being tackled by utilising STEM-related skills. STEM education assists in organising efforts which educate the everyday society of the importance of protecting the invaluable environment- especially from pollution, global warming and other factors which contribute to the harm of our natural world. Marie Currie, a French-Polish physicist, once said: “Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood.” This notable quote can be applied in the instance of STEM education. STEM has the ability to modify society as we know it, as well as tackling environmental issues head-on and presenting new knowledge on eco-friendly and sustainable practices.
Occupations that require STEM-related skills are expanding due to technological developments; careers of the future all necessitate such abilities. These industries of the future are responsible for furthering innovation, creativity and design: all areas STEM education focusses on. According to the US Department of Commerce, STEM occupations are growing at 17%, while other occupations are increasing at 9.8%. These professions are also higher paying than non-STEM occupations. The government is heavily involved in promoting and encouraging individuals to engage in these promising career paths; recent funding of 100 million dollars was proposed to support STEM fields of study.
Everyone who is involved in STEM has the power to change the world for the better. STEM is the way of the future.