Debra Mercora works as a Superintendent of schools in New Jersey. In the following article, Debra Mercora discusses the value of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for learners in today’s classroom setting.
A focus on STEM-based learning has become more prevalent in schools. So, what is STEM, and why is it important for students?
As introduced above, STEM is an acronym that stands for the subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. With jobs in the technology sector on the rise, Debra Mercora of NJ explains that it is becoming vital that students engage in STEM-based learning in a practical way to build the skills they need for future success.
STEM Learning
Debra Mercora of NJ explains that the material covered in STEM learning also differs from that which would conventionally be delivered. The focus is on aligning the education to a student’s strengths and interests, rather than sticking to a prescribed curriculum.
A STEM focused program emphasizes technology in order to demonstrate how other subjects are all linked and can be used together. Students can also understand how what they are learning is applied in the real world through its holistic, application-based approach.
How it is Applied in the Classroom
Debra Mercora, Superintendent explains that because STEM sectors are constantly evolving and changing, STEM teachers must be innovative and versatile in their teaching techniques in order to ensure their students are best prepared for success.
Instead of learning being about memorizing material and getting questions right or wrong, a STEM-based approach encourages students to problem solve and engage in independent thinking.
There are three different types of learning that occur in a STEM classroom: project-based, problem-based, and inquiry-based.
• Project-based learning
Debra Mercora, Superintendent says that students are encouraged to participate in a project designed to solve a problem or provide a working solution. Often these take place over a longer time scale, with pupils working together to analyze and construct their final product.
Usually, project-based learning results in a physical product being created, such as a scale model, an app, or a larger construction project.
• Problem-based learning
This technique is similar to project-based learning, but the main distinction is that students must research and assess a problem that is presented to them. Debra Mercora of NJ says that this needs a high degree of thinking because there is rarely a single valid answer to the problem.
Normally the end result of this learning style creates a response rather than a physical item but could include the creation of fictional business plans as an answer to the problem posed, for example.
• Inquiry-based learning
The primary goal of inquiry-based learning is to promote students’ involvement in the learning process. Debra Mercora of NJ says that this means that students are empowered to ask as many questions about the topic as they like. Because this type of learning is student-led, learners will be required to determine what inquiries they want to raise in order to get the best results possible.
The Benefits of STEM-Based Learning
In the classroom
Debra Mercora, Superintendent explains that STEM-based learning allows students to gain a whole host of translatable skills. These include critical and higher thinking skills, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership.
They will also learn how to work to an objective, including project management and timekeeping skills that are essential in a modern workplace. Alongside this, students will gain higher digital literacy than their peers who do not have a STEM-focused education, helping to equip them for future employment and engaging with more advanced technologies.
A STEM-based classroom also has students who are much more inquisitive and engaged, making for better lessons overall.
Future prospects
The future of every global economy is in industry, and technology plays a pivotal role in this. The demand for qualified STEM experts is increasing to meet demands in the technology sector. This not only provides job possibilities for STEM students but also signifies that they have the capacity to strengthen a country’s economy according to Debra Mercora of NJ.
This is further evidenced in the future pay packets for STEM learners, with many of them experiencing high employment rates and a wage that ensures a quick return on investment on the cost of their studies and training. STEM graduates make around 87% more than non-STEM graduates, according to the American Engineering Association.
Job satisfaction also rates highly among those that studied STEM at school, meaning that they stay on their chosen career path for longer and lead happy and fulfilled lives both in and out of work.
