F.A.Q about S.T.E.M

STEM education is a term used to refer collectively to the teaching of the disciplines within its teaching umbrella, science, technology, engineering and mathematics, and also to a cross-disciplinary approach to teaching that increases student interest in STEM-related fields and improves students’ problem solving and critical analysis skills (Education Council, Australia, 2015).

In the Victorian Curriculum, the Learning Area “Technologies” comprises two strands, “Design and Technologies” and “Digital Technologies”. The Engineering component of STEM is taught through the Design and Technologies strand and the Technology component of STEM is taught through the Digital Technologies strand.

The Department of Education and Training (DET) released a document in September, 2016, called “STEM in the Education State” which stated that there is “a greater need for STEM capabilities than ever before. Our employers are increasingly looking for workers who are creative problem solvers, innovative and critical thinkers, and able to use new technologies”. The Office of the Chief Scientist has suggested that 75% of the fastest growing occupations require STEM knowledge and yet overall student results in Australia in science and mathematics are declining.

In addition to the career opportunities that STEM education provides is the opportunity to improve student engagement and participation, encourage active learning and address some real world problems and challenges through an innovative and stimulating STEM education program.

Deeper learning occurs when a cross-disciplinary approach is adopted that exposes students to a range of thinking processes, skills, content, and applications. STEM can provide students with the chance to develop their critical thinking, creativity, communication and self-direction.

This year and in 2021, we endeavor to integrate our S.T.E.M Learning into our structured curriculum lessons such as Literacy and Mathematics session.