We should all be familiar with STEM, but just in case you are not; STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. These are all important elements that lead a thriving and successful economy. Currently, there is very little attention towards technology in our K-12 Educational System in which we put our focuses on sciences and math, both of which are equally important. What I want to propose is that we need to do a better job of incorporating all of the STEM elements together to enhance our students' learning potential! If we continue to teach these subjects in isolation of each other, we are not giving our students their best chance to thrive in our new economy. 

If you really think about the relationship between these subjects it can be very interesting to note that science progression relies on math, technology, and engineering advancements. Likewise, engineering needs the help of science, math and the use of technological tools to continue its growth. 

Luckily, new standards are being put into place in regards to technology and engineering. Next Generation Science Standards are linking the four subjects together. Disciplinary ideas, or subjects, are grouped in four domains: the physical sciences; the life sciences; the earth and space sciences; and engineering, technology and applications of science.To read more on this process of grouping and teaching these subjects together please click here. 

This is our future and our guide to staying competitive internationally. What would happen if we put all of this new found information to use you say? 

1. Students would learn more deeply, utilizing higher order thinking skills

2. Intertwining these subjects will lead to more interest in STEM Careers, leading us to a better future and economy

As teachers, we need to be looking for ways to integrate all four of the STEM subject areas into our lessons and thematic units. We could do this by using problem-based learning to introduce STEM-related info. Again, these four subjects work with each other and are only at its best when the other three are helping. Let's give our future the best shot! 

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