Define Stem As A Verb: Breaking Down Barriers in Education

The term 'STEM' has become synonymous with science, technology, engineering, and math education. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition that STEM is more than just a collection of subjects – it's a way of thinking. This shift towards a more holistic understanding of STEM has opened up new possibilities for education, allowing students to learn through a more authentic and integrated approach.

At its core, STEM is about action. It's about the important acts of doing and thought that occur when students engage with the world around them. By focusing on the processes and skills involved in STEM, rather than just the subjects themselves, we can help students develop essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, inventing, producing, persevering, collaborating, empathizing, and designing.

But what does this look like in practice? Take, for example, a student who is learning about physics. Instead of simply memorizing formulas and equations, they might be asked to design and build a prototype of a new type of vehicle, using materials from the school's makerspace. This hands-on approach allows students to apply their knowledge in a real-world context, developing problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities.

This is not just limited to STEM subjects, however. By incorporating arts, language, and reading into the mix, we can create a more inclusive and comprehensive model of education – one that truly reflects the interconnectedness of all subject areas. This might look like STEAM (infusing the arts) or STREAM (adding reading), but it's essential to remember that STEM is not just about these four subjects alone.

Rather than limiting our definition of STEM, we should be focusing on creating a more holistic approach to education – one that brings together students from all disciplines to work together towards common goals. This might require some creative thinking and problem-solving, but the rewards are well worth it. By embracing this inclusive model of STEM, we can create a more authentic and meaningful learning experience for our students.

So what does the future hold for STEM education? Perhaps it's time to redefine what we mean by 'STEM' – to turn it into a verb that encompasses all subject areas, rather than just four subjects. Imagine being able to say, 'I'm STREAMING my math homework tonight,' or 'I'm STEAMIEST in my physics class.' It might sound a little silly at first, but the idea is not just about rebranding – it's about creating a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to education.

By embracing this new vision of STEM, we can create a brighter future for our students – one that values creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. So let's take a step back and redefine what it means to be 'STEMIE' – and see where this journey takes us.

Define stem as a verb