
Science, technology, engineering, and math are essential components of STEM programs in schools today. Combined, these subjects are designed to introduce science and related subjects to enhance students’ ability to grasp higher concepts in classical and life sciences, computer science, design, information technology, data analysis and many other components that play a key role in the modern job market.
Why are elementary, middle and high school science lessons important?
In addition to providing students with a general education for the application of scientific principles in everyday life, K-12 science courses help prepare students for the future. Technology has undoubtedly changed the employment landscape in the United States and around the world. Without formal training in STEM subjects, students may be unprepared for the challenges of tomorrow, leading to fewer job opportunities and less progress for society as a whole.
Additionally, the United States as a nation must remain competitive as global trade is now the norm. Countries must demonstrate that they have the manpower to attract large companies to build headquarters, manufacturing plants, corporate offices, etc. If the United States fails to prepare students with a strong scientific background, companies may seek other countries to do business with. This is further complicated by the fact that global trade and business can be conducted online in many cases, which means that workers in the United States will often find themselves competing for jobs against applicants from around the world.
Improve resources for the science student and teacher
While educating students is the primary goal of STEM initiatives, educators must also be encouraged and empowered to provide basic education in science-related subjects. STEM initiatives can include grants that can be applied directly toward the purchase of resources to achieve these goals, and the federal government as well as many states also fund STEM initiatives for public schools to give educators the resources they need to prepare students.
Elementary science lessons require technological equipment to allow young students to become familiar with computer equipment. Science subjects for middle school will need to be taught using internet-connected technology and equipment to provide educators and students with more effective learning methods. High school science courses will require more advanced technology and science labs to reinforce earlier lessons and provide real-world training that will be useful at the college level and in the job market.
Will scientific training be necessary for future employment?
While not all jobs will require STEM education in the future, more and more industries are relying on technology and computing to get things done. Even if someone doesn’t work directly with science in their day-to-day work routine, chances are the work they do involves some type of connected computing technology elsewhere in the vertical.
As such, holding a STEM degree or having an education in STEM subjects may not be a requirement for employment in the future, but having these degrees and education will certainly provide an advantage to job seekers. Many employers are taking a keen interest in STEM investment for employees, and job seekers may become more attractive if they can demonstrate STEM capabilities when applying for a position.
In fact, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has created a program that allows foreign students to have more time to study in the United States through an F-1 visa extension. Under this initiative, international students can extend their visa for an additional 12 months to participate in DHS’s Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This program provides students with real-world experience and training in STEM fields, and it can help US employers find candidates from other countries to work in the United States.
Sources of articles:
https://thehill.com
https://www.aaas.org
https://www.scilearn.com
https://universitybusiness.com
https://www.ed.gov
https://physicstoday.scitation.org
https://www.nature.com