Integrating STEM Opportunities for Young Learners

Excerpt

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education efforts to prepare K-12 students for college and future careers are evolving and remain an important factor in the growth and development of economies across the world (Carter et al. 2014; Ge et al. 2015; Howard 2016; Legewie and DiPrete 2011). In the US alone, the demand for workers is projected to double resulting in 19 million more jobs than workers to fill positions by 2028 (Humes et al. 2011). An increase in the number of jobs available across the world may suggest a greater need for students to select STEM courses and careers. Efforts to increase students’ positive perspectives and pursuits of STEM careers are necessary to meet the growing demand for STEM workers (National Science Foundation, 2011). STEM education meets the present need and facilitates economic progress by preparing students to innovate and succeed in a technological business world (Altiner 2018). Additionally, STEM literacy is the knowledge and understanding of mathematical and scientific processes critical to living a productive and engaged life (National Research Council 2011, 2012). …