Topic

STEM 2.1 Agenda

Figure 1

A horizontal chart describing the six sections in the module. Section 1 Module Introduction. Section 2: Demand and Opportunity is highlighted. Section 3: Messaging. Section 4: Work Values. Section 5 Summary. Section 6 Final Assessment.

Careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are in demand, and there are a multitude of opportunities available to your students. The pathways to STEM careers are more expansive than we normally consider. They include opportunities for students to start exciting careers in STEM with a certificate, 2-year, 4-year, or graduate degrees.

In addition, there is a gross disparity in participation within STEM disciplines. In order to meet the growing demand for the STEM workforce, we must increase the participation of women, people of color, students with disabilities, and students who might not normally consider themselves potential STEM professionals.

The overarching goal of this section is to increase your awareness of the demand, opportunity, and pathways available to your students in STEM.

In this section on Demand and Opportunity, you will:

  1. Complete an activity that will help you identify that our world is engineered.
  2. Learn about the Grand Challenges for STEM in the 21st century.
  3. Read about the demand for STEM professionals in the workforce.
  4. Be challenged to identify some statistics that demonstrate the disparity within STEM fields.
  5. Use the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook to explore opportunities and pathways to STEM careers.
  6. Explore a photo album of five STEM professionals, from various educational backgrounds, who share with you information about their jobs.