Why are students no longer keen to study the subjects that underpin the products and services we use every day? Could it be that a ‘fear of failure’ and investing in time is preventing students from going down this path?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics however, you shouldn’t refer to them as standalone subjects. STEM is more so a way of thinking. It is predicted that 75% of all jobs will require STEM skills over the next decade.*
- Find a course to suit all your interests
Thinking that STEM is only for aspiring scientists, engineers and mathematicians is a misconception. There are many specialisations, suited for students who enjoy asking questions or being challenged. Expect organisations to offer everything from agriculture, ecology, finance to game development, pharmacology and veterinary studies + more.
- Become immersed in the latest innovations
Studying and working in STEM means learning about the world around you, finding innovative solutions to real-world challenges and playing a role in the country’s major discoveries and developments. Imagine working with robots, refining driverless car technology or curing diseases!
- Learn transferable skills that can be used in any occupation and industry
STEM subjects allow you to boast high level communication, interpersonal, critical thinking and problem solving skills – all rounded attributes that are needed to adapt to this rapidly changing world. If you learn how to work with numbers and data, or have strong technical skills, you’ll be employable for a range of roles.
- Have access to a range of professional development and mentoring opportunities
The Australian government is working hard to increase the STEM workforce, which means that students and graduates are supported by a great range of mentoring, professional development and assistance schemes. Many programs target women entering STEM, with men outnumbering women in most professions. CSIRO’s Student Science Bootcamp for high school students and the Australian Computer Society’s Student Hub for university students are just some examples of these opportunities.
Interested in learning more and accelerating your STEM skills? The Brain Education offers mentoring in Science, Maths, Technology and Engineering.
* ‘Effects of integrative approaches among STEM subjects on students’ learning’, Becker, K. and Park, K., Journal of STEM Education Volume 12 – Issue 5 & 6, July-September 2011
