Reaching for the STEM fields |
||||
Many students who graduate from high school are not prepared to pursue a degree in science, technology, engineering or math (STEM). However, the STEM industry has seen a boom in job availability over the last few years. This has created a disparity where there are an abundance of positions but not enough qualified people to fill them, and employers have had to hire outside of the U.S. Many Americans know that the STEM gap is an issue and want to solve it. According to a study commissioned by Microsoft, 93 percent of parents with children in K-12 classes believe that the U.S. education system should make STEM subjects a priority. However, only 49 percent agree that these fields should be the top priority. Motivations for change While half of U.S. parents want their children to enter a STEM field, only 24 percent are willing to pay extra money to help their child succeed in math and science through tutoring or private education. Promoting STEM success Because the STEM gap has been an issue for years, educators and legislators have been working to change the numbers. The Common Core State Standards, for example, aim to prepare students for college and their careers during the course of their K-12 education. Additionally, programs (such as the NMSI) now exist that aim to help students and helps educate teachers on how to better present STEM subjects to their students. |
|