What is STEM?

STEM is a focused, interdisciplinary approach to the teaching and learning of rigorous academic concepts and real world lessons as students apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in contexts that make connections between school, community, work, and global enterprise. This includes 21st century skills and Iron County School District essential eight.

    • Creatively

    • Growth Mindset

    • Critical Thinking

    • Resilience

    • Communication

    • Collaboration

    • Financial Literacy

Benefits of STEM and Integrate Instruction

Student Benefits

STEM is an equitable focus on requisite skills and knowledge in science and mathematics that nurtures students’ creativity and cognitive dispositions. In our district, students work on eight skills that build their abilities to collaborate, think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Students have ownership of their learning and are more engaged. They will build genuine interests that can mature into stackable and portable credentials.

Teacher Benefits

Educators that follow STEM pedagogy are developing PLCs that are based on efficient instructional design, collaboration, and visible learning strategies. This facilitates the use of GVCs and learning targets with clear success criteria. Many features of STEM reflect restorative social and emotional practices also. STEM helps build stronger communication and leadership skills and makes the process of evaluations easier. Most teachers also increase their content knowledge and develop cooperative relationships with colleagues that make work more enjoyable.

Administrator Benefits

STEM is a great way to increase collaboration among faculty and staff. The creative problem-solving/engineering design method can be used facility-wide to improve the implementation of learning targets, feedback and other visible learning strategies. STEM philosophy can be used by administrators to develop a culture of collaboration and motivation. This may also lead to greater stability and higher teacher retention. STEM’s real-world applications can also lead to increased community engagement. Business and other organizational partners will be easier to attract and maintain when educators develop STEM related skills.