Meaning of stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) (what is it, concept and definition)

What is STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics):

STEM is an acronym for disciplines: science (S cience), technology (T echnology), Engineering (E ngineering) and mathematics (M athematics). It is also known by its Spanish acronym CTIM.

STEM is used to refer to the professional sector that involves the disciplines mentioned, such as, for example, profiles and professional careers.

STEM also refers to the methodological and didactic resources whose approach is more practical, changing the traditional way in which it is customary to teach in these areas. This type of learning is known as STEM education, STEM classes, or STEM models.

STEM profiles

STEM profiles refer to careers and jobs in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In the digital age that we live in, these profiles are considered the most attractive in the labor market as they are the best paid and those with the greatest potential for growth in the first half of the 21st century.

STEM careers, or STEM studies, bring together the skills that develop and implement technological innovations, such as those related to advances in robotics, artificial intelligence and the development of Big Data projects.

Some of the careers that fall within the STEM profiles are: engineering, computing, programming, telecommunications, statistics and scientific areas.

STEM education

STEM education encompasses methodological resources and learning strategies in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, which are also known as STEM projects.

STEM projects in classrooms help children learn by playing, developing skills in the areas mentioned while creatively solving problems.

In 2017, the city of Medellín, Colombia, proclaimed STEM + H territory (science, technology, engineering and mathematics + humanities), officially changing roles in classrooms and giving an interdisciplinary approach to learning.

Characteristics of STEM education

STEM education is characterized by its practical and interdisciplinary approach. In addition, the learning strategies use the following formula: learning + play + enjoyment + motivation.

STEM classes seek to develop creativity, logical thinking, analytical skills, multidisciplinary teamwork, the ability to innovate and the ability to solve problems.

Women in STEM

Due to the digital age we live in, it is expected that more and more STEM professionals will be needed. Furthermore, it is observed that STEM profiles have historically been dominated by men.

In this sense, new approaches to STEM education seek more women to join careers in STEM fields. The efforts seek not only the integration and the reduction of inequality, but also the empowerment of women in these areas, contributing new ideas and forms of work.