Source: Google images
Woo-hoo! Our first ever blog post! #theprettyexcited J Thank you for being here.
Since it’s always good to start things at the beginning (where else, right? duh!), this post is going to quickly answer some FAQs around STEM – what is it, why is it necessary and how they would help kids navigate the next century.
Interested and impatient mum: Ok so, quickly, what is this STEM?
Easy peasy. STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. And STEM education uses these subjects in an inter-disciplinary manner and applies it to everyday real world situations.
It’s also what The Pretty Geeky Tribe loves!
Now, rather-intrigued mum: Is STEM education really required?
Short answer, yes. Long one? Yes, very much so. :)
If statistics and numbers are your jam, then let’s say that in the next decade or so it is estimated that more than half the careers that people will have will need at least a fair understanding of one of more than one STEM subjects.
One of the concerns has been the drop in high school students choosing STEM, especially so when it comes to girls. This gender disparity is startling all the more, because STEM careers are often said to be the jobs of the future, driving innovation, social wellbeing, inclusive growth and sustainable development.
The Pretty Geeky hopes to help change that statistic and help kids learn through the powerful tool of play (heck, which child doesn’t love play and which parent doesn’t want learning!)
Curious-but-slightly-unsure dad: Ok but what if my little one wants to pursue writing or music or mosaic art? How will STEM Education help her?
Good question! STEM subjects are not just for kids aspiring to be future mathematicians, scientists, doctors or astronauts because it teaches children more than science and mathematics concepts.
This sharp focus of STEM on hands-on learning with real-world applications will help develop 21st-century skills like media and technology literacy, productivity, social skills, communication, flexibility and initiative. The key is to solve problems creatively, question things, seek the answers, and always be eager to explore more about how to make things work.
Need more convincing? Well, STEM helps learn problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, decision making, leadership, entrepreneurship, acceptance of failure, perseverance and prepares them for innovation.
Long story short, STEM subjects will hold even the next JK Rowling, Taylor Swift and Mbappe in good stead.
Parents, a quick STEM checklist:
1. Observe what your children do during non-educational time of the day? How much of it can qualify as STEM activity? Less than half? Time to up that meter.
2. Take a look at all the toys and games your children play with. While every toy/game should help them learn. 60-70% of them being STEM, is good. The younger the children the more age-appropriate STEM games should be introduced.
3. As far as spending goes, we think keeping a small percentage reserved for pure entertainment value and around 30% on STEM activities would be sufficient.
Source:
https://www.invent.org/blog/trends-stem/value-stem-education
https://nobelexplorers.com/the-importance-of-stem-education/
