STEM in Practice
Governments are constantly exhorting us to introduce STEM in primary schools – but how can this make sense to primary teachers when all they are familiar with is Technology?
This graphic demonstrates the differences between Technology and Engineering and why Engineering and the role of engineers is critical to understanding the STEM concept
We must assist teachers and in-school STEM Coordinators unpack Engineering from Technology as early as possible in our curricula. The problem is not in the content – it is in the language….
STEM is a way of thinking
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
In 2017, Dr Linda Pfeiffer wrote in an Explainer article for the Sydney Morning Herald,
"...STEM is really a way of thinking. It is about the skills required to learn science, technology and mathematics, and how engineering and design processes and principles are used to achieve an outcome."
STEM empowers innovation
The STARportal makes the connections that inspire young people to explore, discover, and create.
It defines STEM as empowering the next generation of innovators, and as a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in the four specific disciplines using an interdisciplinary and applied approach.
STEM literacy
Why is a STEM education important?
A STEM education is not just because the majority of future jobs will require a knowledge of STEM skills.
Support for STEM teaching
The NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) provides guidance on integrating STEM in learning plans.
STEM Education Resources Toolkit
The Australian Government Department of Education commissioned Dandolopartners International to develop the Toolkit as part of its commitment to supporting the National STEM School Education Strategy 2016-2026.
The aim of the National STEM School Education Resources Toolkit is to assist schools and industry to establish new STEM initiatives, form school-industry partnerships, and evaluate existing and future STEM initiatives.