In a capricious and constantly evolving world it is imperative that every individual must transform in its accordance, thus, the young generation must be ready to face such challenges by bridging the gap between the classroom and real world problems. This is empowered by a discipline called STEM; which collectively stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and aids in inculcation of skills, information and capacity for evaluation.
STEM was coined by Dr. Ramaley in 2001 and described it as a way of learning by coupling academia with real life problems; which in brief attributes as engineering for kids. The advancement in technology has made it mandatory for every student to mold their brains in way that it sanctions them to use their creativity and critical thinking abilities to pinnacle in this world that is driven by information and innovation. STEM typically enforces project based learning in aligned with the regular classroom. It enables students to embrace science and technology at a very young age and employ the concepts in solving the greater problems in life.
STEM fosters several benefits such as cultivation of ingenuity and creativity at a very young age. It works on the principle of “if I can dream of it, I can achieve it”. It nurtures resilience as it allows the student to fail and try recurrently until the goal is achieved. This not only helps build confidence but lends the message that it is okay to fail, that one must learn from their mistakes and improve. It persuades experimentation and facilitates risk taking attitude; this indeed provokes the try and fail phase with positivity. It reflects on the concept of collaboration and highlights the importance of team work. It lends them hands-on training and application of knowledge that impacts them in a pragmatic manner pushing them to think out the box. Most importantly, STEM allows them to adapt to situations which are difficult, enables them to conform to the scenario and act cleverly. It ensures critical thinking and readiness to accept new challenges.
In the recent times STEM has added an additional “A” and changed itself to STEAM, that is, A stands for arts. This addition mainly signifies the integrated way of learning that mirrors the real life and enables the students to learn creatively. Here, the underlying principle is that the real world problems can be solved by interdisciplinary approach and that STEAM education enfolds critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication.
"Education is like an 'overloaded dustbin', if it can't STEM the broadness in one's thoughts" ~Shesha Vijay