What is STEM?

According to Quigley and Herro (2016), STEM “incorporates the content areas by merging the subjects and asking students to problem solve using authentic scenarios” (420). The four content areas are: Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Within a STEM classroom, these content areas coincide with one another and are expected to be taught cohesively. Dickerson et. al (2013) stated how “research shows how particular STEM designs and elements contribute to content knowledge gains, enhanced interest and attitudes, and entrance and persistence in STEM coursework and careers” (484). As the article titled, “ The Rising Popularity of STEM,” reports: “The National Science Foundation estimates that 80% of the jobs available during the next decade will require math and science skills. InTech reports that eight-graders in the United States are being outperformed by students in Singapore, Chinese Taipei, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, SAR, Estonia, Japan, Hungary, and the Netherlands. Only 29% of high school graduates tested ready for higher education in science” (Chen, 2019). With the decrease in math and science test scores and the increase of careers involving STEM, it is apparent that a STEM education is needed within today’s classrooms.