Why STEM integration is important now

Facts:

• People in STEM fields can expect to earn 26% more money on average and be less likely to experience job loss.

• 92% of boys and 97% of girls lose interest in STEM if not engaged by the 5th grade (Dr. Kenneth Wesson, Educational Consultant: Neuroscience)

• Out of 65 countries, American students score 17th in science and 25th in math ability (The U.S. Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development).

• Currently only 16% of U.S. bachelor’s degrees will specialize in STEM.

• The STEM jobs market grew 45% in 2018. 15 of the 20 fastest growing occupations require significant mathematics or science preparation.

• College STEM majors out-earn other college grads.

These numbers are startling to say the least, as it seems we are falling short in our efforts to keep pace with the rest of the world. STEM integration is vital in every school starting with Kindergarten and leading through the entire pathway of education. Early integration makes STEM part of everyday life and allows kids to make the connection in all the ways STEM is around them. Connecting kids with STEM interests at these early ages has shown to keep kids engaged in key STEM subjects and careers as adults, opening a gateway to better ourselves and our world.

Not only does early STEM integration and activities teach real world and hands-on skills, starting STEM education early provides exposure to the soft skills often needed in the professional world. Having only hard skills is not enough for getting a job (or keeping one for that matter). Companies are looking for particular personality traits such as: adaptability and resilience, communication skills, critical thinking, social etiquette and other skills that boost productivity.

Early and consistent access to STEM education helps kids develop soft skills from the start because it requires them to think through problems and find solutions. Students need to interact with each other and teachers to communicate their thoughts and explore new ideas with each STEM project or activity.

Register for our webinar - Integrating STEM 101 for fun ways to integrate STEM today!