STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and is an educational methodology that was pioneered by Dr. Judith Ramaley in 2001 when she was developing curricula for the National Science Found have adopted STEM-focused curricula. The specific STEM disciplines , according to the NSF, are engineering, math, biology, psychology, economics, agricultural sciences, and other behavioral sciences.
Since then, STEM has become an approach used in educational systems in countries around the world. Many people believe that having a workforce that is STEM-educated leads to high-levels of professional success and economic stability.
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. This methodology focuses on the same educational concepts as STEM, but incorporates creativity and problem solving, inquiry, and making connections into the learning process. Many people believe that a STEAM-educated workforce will be better positioned for professional success and creating economic stability because of their ability to solve real problems.
STREAM incorporates Reading and wRiting into the educational approach. Many people view the addition of writing provides a more well-rounded curriculum for students.
There is tremendous value in all three approaches. Ideally, an educational methodology should be aimed at helping students of all types be future-ready and positioned to be active contributors in the workforce. Women and people of color, in particular, seem to benefit professionally from STEM, STEAM, and STREAM educations. Historically, males have held the majority of STEM-related jobs. STEM provides an important foundation for all three approaches and while this website is geared towards STEM, both STEAM and STREAM are excellent methodologies and will create well-rounded students and workers who will shape the future of our world. The key is unlocking the potential of each and every student.
Bright Futures Begin With STEM 