STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It emphasizes a problem-based, transdisciplinary approach to learning that focuses on 21st century skills. STEM is important because it prepares students for college and careers and emphasizes real-world problem solving through collaboration and hands-on experiences. Effective STEM teaching encourages students to make observations, ask questions, solve problems, work together, figure things out independently, gain hands-on experiences, create, synthesize information, and present their work.

2. What is STEM?YesNoMaybe

3. So, What is STEM?STEM is NOT just curriculum integration.STEM is a new way of thinking about instruction. It is shifting towards Problem-Based Learning and emphasizing 21st century learning skills.

4. 21stCentury Learners - http://got.im/6DXcCollege and Career ReadinessRace to the Top application STEM is mentioned 1,276 timesTransdisciplinary approach Why is STEM important?

5. TransdisciplinaryUnlike a “multidisciplinary integrated approach where the curriculum and instruction include two or more disciplines around a theme, or interdisciplinary integrated approach where curriculum and instruction is centered around common learning across disciplines, transdisciplinary involves the organization of curriculum and instruction around student questions, where concepts and skills are developed through real-life context.”Drake and Burns (2004).

6. Awareness and Exploration

7. CelebrationsSTEM Teacher SpecialistSTEM CoordinatorExpanding STEM Teacher Leader programGrant MoneyWorking towards MSDE endorsement for STEMSTEM DaySTEM-related PAWS groupsMSOSTEM LabSTEM-related PDSTEM-based instruction already occurring

8. Teachingtudentshinkingvaluatingastering

9. Teaching STEM HOW?

10. Teaching STEM Get them to make observations

11. Teaching STEM Get them toaskquestions

12. Teaching STEM Give them problems to solve

13. Teaching STEM Get them working together

14. Teaching STEM MAKE them figure it out 

15. Teaching STEM Give them experiences 

16. Teaching STEM Encourage them to create 

17. Teaching STEM Encourage them to present 

18. Teaching STEM Have them synthesize