There was a time when America led the world in the fields of science and technology. Automotive engineering, astrophysics, computer development and the exploration of outer space were all things that they excelled in. But it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain that position due to the shortage of scientifically qualified young people joining the workforce today. That is where STEM training has stepped in. This is a government initiative to improve the teaching of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and ensure that far larger numbers of young children are given the opportunity of studying these hitherto elitist subjects.
The general idea is to catch them young. For decades the accent has been on reading writing and math in the early years of school. Now the powers that be want to introduce STEM learning so that science will be part of the day to day curriculum and not some esoteric option at a later stage. Furthermore especial emphasis is to be put on introducing girls and all pupils from minority backgrounds to scientific and technological subjects as early as possible. These students form a virtually untapped pool which could easily be trained to fill the gaps in industry and R&D in the future.
However important school teaching may be, it will be of little or no use if not backed up at home. As many of the children will come from totally non scientific households it may be necessary for the parents to undergo STEM coaching to help them to encourage the children. With access to computers being more widespread this is not an impossible task. TV too has a role to play.
America must remain competitive in the marketplace and especially in R&D. There needs to be a constant stream of technically minded teens coming out of College and going into university or industry. They need to see the attraction, be enticed.
Many kids still want to be a fireman when they grow up. It is the epitome of adventure and daring. Finding a way to make becoming a scientist or an engineer as appealing might help. Television or computer games can be used to build up the right image.
This is not a program the education sector can possibly carry through alone. It is essential that those who are bemoaning the dearth of suitable graduates are in the forefront of the campaign to produce more. And not just by giving money although equipment will also be welcome. They must be willing to visit schools and talk to the kids. Maybe even take them to their laboratories and factories to get them interested.
With an all out effort by all the stakeholders there should be results. STEM training can work but not overnight. It will require effort and patience.
The general idea is to catch them young. For decades the accent has been on reading writing and math in the early years of school. Now the powers that be want to introduce STEM learning so that science will be part of the day to day curriculum and not some esoteric option at a later stage. Furthermore especial emphasis is to be put on introducing girls and all pupils from minority backgrounds to scientific and technological subjects as early as possible. These students form a virtually untapped pool which could easily be trained to fill the gaps in industry and R&D in the future.
However important school teaching may be, it will be of little or no use if not backed up at home. As many of the children will come from totally non scientific households it may be necessary for the parents to undergo STEM coaching to help them to encourage the children. With access to computers being more widespread this is not an impossible task. TV too has a role to play.
America must remain competitive in the marketplace and especially in R&D. There needs to be a constant stream of technically minded teens coming out of College and going into university or industry. They need to see the attraction, be enticed.
Many kids still want to be a fireman when they grow up. It is the epitome of adventure and daring. Finding a way to make becoming a scientist or an engineer as appealing might help. Television or computer games can be used to build up the right image.
This is not a program the education sector can possibly carry through alone. It is essential that those who are bemoaning the dearth of suitable graduates are in the forefront of the campaign to produce more. And not just by giving money although equipment will also be welcome. They must be willing to visit schools and talk to the kids. Maybe even take them to their laboratories and factories to get them interested.
With an all out effort by all the stakeholders there should be results. STEM training can work but not overnight. It will require effort and patience.
About the Author:
STEM Is Elementary, LLC is a top provider of STEM Training. Contact them today for more information! (http://www.elementarystem.com)
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