What Is STEM?

At its most basic, STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. But STEM education is far more than just sticking those subject titles together. It’s a philosophy of education that embraces teaching skills and subjects in an a way that resembles real life.

The key component of STEM is integration. Instead of teaching disciplines in independent subject silos, lessons are well-rounded, project- and inquiry-based, with a focus on interdisciplinary learning. STEM aligns with the way we work and problem solve in our daily lives–making it an exceptional way of instructing and learning. With STEM we are teaching skills the way they will be used in the workforce and the real world. Rarely does a job require only one skill set like math. Picture an architect. She uses science, math, engineering and technology to do her job. The subjects do not work on their own; instead, they are woven together in practical and seamless ways allowing the architect to design complex buildings.

(Source: STEAM Powered Family)