STEM is a four-letter acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. These letters represent the different educational areas that are vital in developing skills such as problem solving and critical thinking.STEM skills are necessary for many future careers in areas such as food production, health care, manufacturing and so much more. STEM education helps to develop curiosity in children and feeds their bug to explore. In the classroom, it can be integrated within different topics and subjects, or taught as a separate project. 

In the 21^st century, scientific and technological innovations are developing rapidly, and we are facing many new benefits and challenges. STEM skills are vital in tackling these challenges so that we can continue to develop in the future.

Why is STEM education important?

Nowadays technology is developing at a faster rate than ever before. We are discovering and inventing new products and process which will boost economies and support the population. These innovations would not be possible without STEM knowledge and skills, and a lot of jobs in the future will be reliant on these also. Despite this fact, many countries are lagging behind other developing countries on average mathematics and science scores, so now more than ever it is even more important to focus on STEM education.

STEM jobs

STEM based jobs are abundant and growing. In 2013, there were 1.2 million vacant STEM jobs, which felt like a huge number, but since then the figure has evolved into 2.4 million – an even more significant number. STEM jobs are often well paid and offer great career options.

Early childhood learning

Researchers have also discovered a link between STEM leaning and early childhood. Children who learn basic STEM skills at a young age are more likely to be prepared for school, adapt well to change and have an advantage when it comes to choosing their future careers. Our interests and careers as adults are often linked back to early childhood experiences so starting young is very important.

STEM Activities & Opportunities

Many schools have begun to focus more on STEM education and in particular, coding in recent years but there are still improvements to be made. If you are looking to introduce a new scheme of STEM work into the classroom, then take a look at the Sphero Education Pack, which includes 12 award winning coding robots, charging bases and a quick start guide to get your started and on your way to delivering STEM education. These bots are waterproof, shockproof and can be wiped clean – perfect for a classroom environment. 

If you are a parent looking for a way to introduce coding and STEM skills at home, then you can purchase your own individual Sphero robot – the Sphero BOLT. The device can be connected to iOS or Android devices and comes with everything you need to jump right in to STEM learning at home.

Do you have any tips or tricks on how to introduce STEM education at home or in the classroom? Let us know in the comments down below – sharing is caring!