One of the problems that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering And Mathematics) education is facing is gender gap. That's why, Stanford has intensified its campaign in encouraging young girls and underrepresented minorities to explore and be interested in STEM-related fields.
As Stanford University president John Hennessy retires from the academe this August after almost 40 years of service, he will be taking a new role starting this fall as the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program inaugural director. The program is reportedly a $750 million grant launched by Stanford University to fund 100 students, who have the "potential for leadership and civic commitment," annually for three years.
Prior to Hennessey's retirement, however, he was asked to share his views on STEM education. In the interview, Hennessey stressed the need for universities to step up their efforts when it comes to STEM education by opening its doors to women and minorities.
Hennessey also added that STEM education in the United States is still plagued with several challenges. In fact, Hennessey highlighted the fact that K-12 education lacks the "quality to prepare students in science, engineering, math or physics."
"People coming out of high school don't know what engineering is in many cases," Hennessey told EE Times. "Technology is not an end-all but it's part of a broader solution. We will continue to face a teacher shortage in advanced math and tech fields. So we can use technology to accelerate advanced students and support those struggling with material when a teacher can't always give individual attention."
With that said, why is there really a need for America to support STEM education? Due to the undeniable rise of technology, eGovinnovation emphasized that future jobs will have a "greater demand" for STEM skills hence making STEM education as an progressively significant factor for the labor sector in the 21st century, with increasing STEM graduates projected between now and 2030.
STEM education in the United States, however, is also facing several challenges. Aside from gender gap, educational institutions are also failing to "attract and educate a sufficient number of young scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians" despite the fact that the demand for STEM-skilled workers is rapidly increasing, Townhall noted.
Meanwhile, in order to effectively support and implement STEM education, FOX News outlined three key areas to "make things better" for STEM educators. These are: providing teachers with the right support, improving recruitment and reputation, and lastly, increasing the focus of STEM-related curricula on engineering and computer science.
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