STEM studies are a high topic in educational circles right now. Standing for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, it’s both a broad branch of study and an important one. STEM workers generally earn a quarter more than the average worker, which will only increase over time. But even if a student decides not to pursue a career in a STEM field, there are many benefits to developing skills in these subjects.
Increasing Presence in the Market
If you think that technology is a dominant factor in our lives, imagine how things will look in ten or 20 years. The current growth rate for STEM jobs is 17%, and that’s nearly double the rate for non-STEM jobs. As more and more people transition to remote working positions and more of our jobs are automated, tech literacy will become a prerequisite rather than an asset to survive in the workforce.
It Helps Us Better Understand the World
Even students who do not pursue careers in the STEM field can benefit from the 21st-Century skills inherent in STEM education. These skills are highly valued in today’s job market. Being able to communicate effectively and collaborate with others are essential skills in today’s job market. While these skills are often referred to as “soft skills,” they are critical for future economic growth and success.
The scientific method provides an indispensable process for learning how to learn, and that sort of critical thinking is further bolstered by the development of imagination, leadership skills, and creativity. Moreover, it teaches students that failure is not just okay but is actually an integral part of finding success.
Innovation drives the growth of technology, and it’s predicated on the notion that taking risks and failing – often multiple times – are valuable assets. And even for students who don’t intend to become entrepreneurs and change the world, a firm grasp of STEM concepts can help them navigate some of life’s most challenging aspects – from evaluating the pros and cons of a given career path to better balancing the mundane tasks of their everyday lives.
Confidence Booster
Students who have a strong foundation in STEM also receive the benefit of improved self-confidence. Learning to make connections, draw inferences, and come to conclusions based on evidence requires that students take risks and revise their thinking. The process of grappling with a problem and using the scientific method to help solve that problem provides children with confidence in their own abilities. STEM teaches students to think for themselves and encourages curiosity, which can lead to life-long learning. Regardless of whether their career path directly involves STEM skills, students will become more capable learners in general, which can lead to success in any field they choose.
STEM education is essential not only for the increased earning potential it can offer but also for spurring innovation and strong critical thinking skills in today’s youth.
Dr. Edward S. Thalheimer is the President and Founder of The Tutoring Franchise Corp. As many schools are now turning to online learning, we here at The Tutoring Center® are continuing to provide one-to-one instruction combined with The Rotational Approach to Learning® to prevent children from slipping through the cracks academically. Our programs help children achieve long-term success, build concentration and focus, and, with our outstanding instructors, find the love of learning. Don’t let your child fall behind this school year. If you’re interested in learning more, visit our website at TutoringCenter.com.