Would STEM extend to teaching these disciplines?
I enjoy math and education. One of the things that interest me is teaching Math. #teacher #math #higher-education
4 answers
Seth Daniel Bernstein
Seth Daniel’s Answer
Fuzzy’s Answer
TEM is the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and encompasses a vast array of subjects that fall into each of those terms. While it is almost impossible to list every discipline, some common STEM areas include: aerospace engineering, astrophysics, astronomy, biochemistry, biomechanics, chemical engineering, chemistry, civil engineering, computer science, mathematical biology, nanotechnology, neurobiology, nuclear physics, physics, and robotics, among many, many others. As evidenced by the multitude of disciplines, it’s clear that STEM fields affect virtually every component of our everyday lives.
In the United States, STEM is of the utmost importance because of the role these subjects play at multiple levels of society, and the tremendous impact they have. Our country’s entire economy revolves around mathematics: accounting, economics, functions and logarithms, and calculus. The architecture industry is centered on math, as is urban development and city planning. Medical research is fueled by the study of chemistry and biology, and environmental efforts like sustainable energy and nuclear power are also steeped in the sciences. It’s impossible to find a part of society that does not, in some way, interact with these subjects, and since so many of these industries are coordinated by or connected to our government at some level, it’s safe to say that the very governing of our country depends on them. STEM is essential to our education system, as school districts across the country strive to build a stronger curriculum around these subjects.
Debra’s Answer
Sure - Good STEM subject teachers is certainly part of what's needed. You may want to explore colleges with strong teacher education programs in these areas - Math Education, Science Education, etc. At many schools, you will further choose a grade range. - elementary education, secondary education (high school), etc. Licensed High School Math & Science teachers are always in demand, especially for the higher level courses; think Physics more so than basic math. Also, know that teacher education programs require full-time student teaching "internships" that come at the end of the degree program. You will be assigned to work with a teacher and you'll teach and be observed teaching and evaluated by your college. Before the final student teaching experience, you'll start out observing in schools as well. Note that teacher licensure requirements differ by state, so you may want to explore your state's Department of Education website for specific requirements. All state's require some kind of test - often more than one along with other degree requirements. There are many good teacher education programs out there; see links below to start researching possible schools. Best of luck to you! We need good teachers!
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/national-universities/undergraduate-teaching
https://www.teachercertificationdegrees.com/schools/
https://study.com/top_25_teaching_colleges.html
https://www.collegemagazine.com/10-best-colleges-for-education-majors/
Tracey M. Wofford, Ph.D.
Tracey M.’s Answer
Hi Kelly, I see from your first question that this question is likely a follow up, so while all previous answers are good ones, if you’re wondering about logistics, workflow, and management in the context of STEM, then still an enthusiastic yes! Those areas fall under science and technology, for sure, and Engineering opens all sorts of possibilities. Lastly, mathematics is a universal language of sorts, so whether you find yourself becoming a professional, a researcher, or an educator, you seem a great fit to explore STEM initiatives, organizations, financial aid/scholarship options, and career paths. The very best of luck to you!