STEM: what is it?

STEM: Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is a broad term used to group together these academic disciplines. This term is typically used to address an education policy or curriculum choices in schools.

Decades ago, we had to convince girls that they didn’t have to go to home economics class, that they could do Math and beat the boys at it. Nowadays, that gap is narrowing.  Girls by now know that they can do Math, and soccer or whatever they want. Salaries and faculty positions in universities are declining and boys seem to prefer law and business, it’s women to take the non-tenure (second class citizen) teaching positions in universities.

Do I still have to say something about STEM in primary and high school, then? Yes, I do.

Everybody has to do STEM classes because science is far reaching and we are all affected by decisions made regarding science. We all need to be “alphabetized” in science.  If you don’t know how to read an ingredient list or you think that the Covid vaccine can change your DNA, then you are in trouble. Somebody else will make decisions for you and those people may not have your best interests in mind.

One more thing: the importance of STEM does not make music or English or literature any less important. Music and poetry are good for your soul, and being able to write a letter makes you a better candidate for any position you may apply for.

Hannah