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A . Importance of Stem in schools
"In the 21st century, scientific and
technological innovations have become increasingly important as we face
the benefits and challenges of both globalisation and a knowledge-based
economy. To succeed in this new information-based and highly
technological society, students need to develop their capabilities in
Stem to levels much beyond what was considered acceptable in the past."
- National Science Foundation
According to US State Department of Commerce, Stem occupations are growing at 17 per cent, while others are growing at 9.8 per cent. As the economy becomes more knowledge based, which further relies on 21st century skills and competencies, Stem and especially coding and making are becoming even more instrumental in determining the success of a student in their professional career. Not only does it help students develop technical skills, but it also makes them more competitive and prone to developing an inquiring mind. It is in these young minds that we invest our future and developing the "four Cs" of the 21st century skills: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and communication are important for survival in the 21st century and they form an integral aspect of Stem education.
According to US State Department of Commerce, Stem occupations are growing at 17 per cent, while others are growing at 9.8 per cent. As the economy becomes more knowledge based, which further relies on 21st century skills and competencies, Stem and especially coding and making are becoming even more instrumental in determining the success of a student in their professional career. Not only does it help students develop technical skills, but it also makes them more competitive and prone to developing an inquiring mind. It is in these young minds that we invest our future and developing the "four Cs" of the 21st century skills: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and communication are important for survival in the 21st century and they form an integral aspect of Stem education.
As challenges get more complex in this digital
age of dynamic global environment which requires sustainable
development, students require these skills fostered by Stem, in addition
to the foundational literacies. This is because only those jobs that
require a non-routine, cognitive and creative skill set will survive the
onslaught of automation that is becoming evident across all industries
across the globe.
B. Stem in UAE
"The national strategy of innovation focuses
on knowledge integration in science, technology, engineering,
mathematics and other fields, all of which contribute towards
strengthening the knowledge economy." - Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid
To produce a human capital of scientists and
innovators, the country is focusing on Stem education in schools and on
to higher education. To help guide the students in that direction,
programs and strategies such as Smart Learning Program, Journey of
Discovery: Innovation campaign, Young Thinkers Program, Stem Scholars
Programme have been devised by various governmental and non-governmental
organisations. The main goal is to reform education in the UAE to
become one of the best education systems in the world. This will be
measured by the country's performance in literacy, numeracy &
scientific skills through TIMSS & PISA, as set out in the National
Agenda Targets.
