The disciples of science, technology, engineering, and math have always been the major pillars of the education system. However, the methods used to teach these critical subjects have evolved significantly over the past few decades.
Here, we will talk about STEM Education, one of the most popular educational approaches taking over the classrooms today. So let's get started.
What is STEM Education?
Earlier, students mostly learned through active and passive listening in the classrooms during lectures. But teachers eventually realized that lectures were not enough to explain new concepts to students; they needed to focus on practical applications for further clarity. This is why the STEM approach was introduced.
STEM education is an integrative method of learning where the students learn how to apply the concepts of science, technology, engineering, and math in the real world through practical activities.
With this approach, learning becomes a whole new experience for both students and teachers. However, most people associate it with complex topics and computer programs, rendering it suitable for older kids only. This is not true at all! STEM education is equally crucial for preschoolers too. Read on to learn why.
Importance of STEM Education at an Early Age
● Preschoolers Absorb Information Quickly
Children of the preschool ages are like sponges of information. Their brains develop the fastest at this age, making it easier to absorb and understand different facts, figures, connections, and relationships. Besides focusing on students' reading abilities, teachers should also impart STEM education at the elementary level.
● Matches the Curious Nature of Children
Young children are always willing and curious to explore their surroundings in depth. They ask plenty of questions and often try to find the answers themselves. Their nature matches the agenda of STEM education perfectly. They can learn a lot from level-appropriate STEM-related activities, like nature walks, playing with the elements (sand, water, etc.), and building simple machines.
● Leads to Future Academic Success
Research suggests a positive connection between STEM education and students' learning outcomes. The engaging activities involved in STEM education motivate students to learn more and ingrain numerous core skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, etc. Such motivation and skills enable the children to perform better in other fields of study too.
● Opens Up Multiple Career Options for Future
The fields of science, technology, engineering, and math are in high demand right now. Why? Because the world is changing dynamically, and these fields are the flag bearers of innovation. Providing STEM education at an early age ensures that children develop a passion for it and become successful individuals in STEM-related fields.
● Helps Children Faster Through Hands-on Experience
What would appeal to the kids more, reading a book on forests or an exciting field trip to the jungles? Exposure to different plants and trees in person can help the children learn more than looking at them in their textbooks. They can retain more information on forests by relating it to the memories from the trip. The point here is that hands-on experiences spark their interest more than classroom lectures and help them learn faster.