STEM or STEAM? How About Yes to Both!

STEM is an educational approach to learning and development that integrates the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Through STEM, students can develop key skills including:

  • problem solving
  • critical analysis
  • independent thinking
  • creativity
  • teamwork
  • initiative
  • communication
  • digital literacy

Why is STEM important?

Times are changing and technology is advancing by leaps and bounds. The global economy that we once knew has a different face and that face is also changing. Old career paths are disappearing and automation is driving the way. New jobs are emerging every day as our existing technologies advance. But that just the tip of the iceberg.

The continual advances in technology are changing the way students learn, connect, and interact every day. Skills developed by students through STEM provide them with the foundation to succeed at school and beyond.

Employer demand for STEM qualifications and skills is high, and will continue to increase in the future. Most of the jobs in our fastest growing industries require workers with STEM skills. The labor market is looking for people who can adapt to an ever-changing workplace.

STEM empowers individuals with the skills to succeed and adapt to this changing world.

STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

Just like with STEM, through STEAM, students can develop key skills including:

  • problem solving
  • critical analysis
  • independent thinking
  • creativity
  • teamwork
  • initiative
  • communication
  • digital literacy
African american women teacher and student artist drawing at art studio
Colleagues Writing Mathematical Formulas On Transparent Wipe Board

STEAM education uses arts integration as an instructional approach — and for experiential and inquiry-based learning — and provides multiple access points for students to engage in the creative process and meet objectives in all subject areas. The end results are students who take:

  • thoughtful risks
  • engage in experiential learning
  • persist in problem-solving
  • embrace collaboration
  • work through the creative process

Simply put STEM + Art = STEAM

STEM is a building block for STEAM.
Think of STEAM as STEM with a little extra Spice!
These approaches help to create the innovators, educators, leaders, and learners of the future!