The Importance of STEM Education in Shaping the Future

Introduction

In this era of fast-developing technology, we are constantly amazed by the creativity of innovators like Elon Musk, who dreams of colonizing Mars. Let’s also not forget the scientists and engineers behind the development of our digital devices and the internet. These innovators and many others like them throughout history shared a similar foundation in STEM education.

“Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” (Goodreads,2024), as the famous inventor, Thomas Edison, once said. Similarly, just as a building with a weak foundation may fall, success should be built on immense knowledge and experience.

The path of STEM education can be challenging for students as they encounter problems testing their patience and determination. However, these problems help build critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success. 

STEM education is beyond today’s typical experiments and formulas; rather, it allows students to learn practical problem-solving skills.  Moreover, it boosts curiosity and creativity, thus preparing them for different careers in the real world.

STEM and Its Four Parts

So what is “STEM”?

Dr. Judith Ramaley introduced the term “STEM” in 2001, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. It quickly became widely used as a curriculum for preparing primary and secondary students for future careers and academic success. The four parts of STEM consist of:

• Science:  It is about creating information using verified theories and consists of three branches: the natural sciences (physics, chemistry, etc.)  that focus on the physical world, the social sciences (economics, psychology, etc.) that investigate human behavior, and the formal sciences (mathematics, logic, etc.) that study theoretical models. 
• Technology: It involves using theoretical understanding to create and use tools, systems, and products, typically through computer science and software engineering. It includes both tangible and intangible items, such as machines and software.
• Engineering: It involves the use of natural science, mathematics, and engineering design to solve technical issues and increase efficiency. Moreover, it can develop systems in areas such as infrastructure, electronics, and energy. 
• Math:  This area includes and assembles various methods, theories, and theorems for empirical sciences and math. It is a tool for modeling, analyzing, and solving problems across other STEM areas. It typically consists of branches like algebra, geometry, calculus, and statistics.

Benefits of STEM Education:

• Helps develop skills for the 21st Century: In today’s era, STEM education extends beyond exam scores. It emphasizes teamwork, effective communication, research capabilities, problem-solving, and creative thinking. These abilities are important for thriving in this age, regardless of one’s future career, and can be improved through hands-on assignments.

• Experiencing education within the real world: STEM education integrates classroom knowledge with real-world applications through programs like university research and industry projects. This approach deepens understanding and prepares students for professional STEM careers.

• Boosts innovation and economic growth: STEM education is at the center of innovation and can shape how we live and work. It boosts creativity and problem-solving, allowing individuals to develop new and better solutions in STEM fields. Moreover, it boosts economic growth and keeps nations competitive.

• Adapting to the changing job markets: The labor market is changing immensely due to rapid technological advancement. However, the future of STEM occupations remains strong. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, STEM jobs are estimated to grow 7% faster than non-STEM jobs by 2033. STEM occupations also pay well, from salaries averaging up to $100,900 per year, around two times higher than non‐STEM occupations.  STEM will not only prepare students for existing employment opportunities but for future ones as well. Through practical lab assignments and group projects, STEM allows students to apply what they have learned to real life.  

Examples of STEM Careers: 

• Science Careers: Biologist, Chemist, Physicist, Astronomer, Geologist, Meteorologist, Epidemiologist, Microbiologist.

• Technology Careers: Software Developer, Computer Systems Analyst, Information Security Analyst, Computer Systems Administrator, Database Administrator, Computer Programmer, Web Developer, Computer Systems Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst

• Engineering Careers: Mechanical Engineer. Civil Engineer. Electrical Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Aerospace Engineer, Biomedical Engineer, Environmental Engineer, Industrial Engineer

• Math Careers: Statistician, Operations Research Analyst, Actuary, Cryptographer, Financial Analyst, Budget Analyst, Market Research Analyst

Conclusion

STEM education allows students to acquire a variety of skills needed in today’s society.  Moreover, it can equip them to challenge problems and seize any potential opportunities that come their way. With current industries improving and new ones emerging, the demand for STEM graduates continues to grow. So why wait? Explore STEM education today and discover the opportunities that lie ahead for you.

Read more STEM and STEAM-related articles on our Zealousness blog STEAM – iN Education Inc. (ineducationonline.org).

Sources:

1. Wikipedia, Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Science,_technology,_engineering,_and_mathematics, 2024
2. Goodreads Quotes, Quotable Quotes ‘A quote by Thomas Edison’, Wayne W. Dyer, https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/7460338-thomas-edison-said-genius-is-one-percent-inspiration-and-ninety-nineShiksha.com, 2024
3. STEM Education: An Overview, Aishwarya Bhatnagar, https://www.shiksha.com/studyabroad/stem-education-an-overview-articlepage-2661, August 7, 2024
4. Forbes Technology Council, Harnessing Machine Learning, AI And Green Skills For Increased Employability, Anna Frazzetto, https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2024/07/12/harnessing-machine-learning-ai-and-green-skills-for-increased-employability/, July 12, 2024.
5. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment in STEM occupations, https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/stem-employment.htm, April 17, 2024
6. TechTarget, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), Ben Lutkevich, https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/STEM-science-technology-engineering-and-mathematics, October 2022
7. BestColleges, STEM Careers, Hannah Muniz, https://www.bestcolleges.com/careers/stem/, July 30, 2024