5 Essential STEM Education Resources

Over the past decade, technology skills have become an essential for staying competitive in the workplace. Many jobs ranging from healthcare to information management careers want applicants to know the basics of coding and other in-demand skills. Although Boomers to Millennials may not need these skills to get a job now, they’ll become even more important in the next few years. In addition to these skills becoming key for any role, more jobs in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields are being created every year. In 2015, there were 8.6 million STEM jobs in the United States, and that number is increasing each year. 

Because our world is increasingly dependent on technology, kids going to school today have to have a solid background in STEM in order to succeed in tomorrow’s workforce. Many parents and teachers are rightfully concerned that kids are not getting the kind of inspiration and education they need to develop these necessary skills. Adults can also benefit from advancing their STEM education and gaining those in-demand skills. If you think the kids in your life (or you, yourself!) could use more resources to get interested in STEM and become more proficient, get started with these great tools. 

1. Ultimate Guide to Writing Styles

You might not think that STEM and writing are related, but people working in STEM fields need to be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and often have to write about their research findings. 

Different writing styles are key to appropriate communications in college and beyond. Learning the difference between the four main writing styles will help students understand how to write for applications, research papers, and more. This resource walks you through the different styles and introduces tips, tricks, and strategies for more effective writing. 

2. STEM Toys

A key component of a well-rounded STEM education is getting kids excited about these subjects from an early age. Many children get bored or discouraged learning complex STEM concepts in school, which is why it is so important to incorporate play and inspiration into the curriculum.

Very young children can be introduced to stem through play. STEM Toys is a great resource that offers parents lists of toys that will inspire a love of STEM in kids from kindergarten to fifth grade. Educators emphasize that a good STEM education teaches kids creative problem-solving skills, rather than technical skills and concepts, which can quickly go out of date. When kids are taught to explore and experiment, they become more interested in STEM fields and don’t get as discouraged when they start to tackle practical concepts and solve real STEM problems in school. 

3. Engineer Girl

It’s a sad fact that many girls get excited about STEM fields like engineering at an early age, but often lose interest for a number of reasons. Harmful stereotypes and fewer role models play a role in creating the gender gap in STEM fields. Women make up half the population, of course, and they have so much to offer to these fields. Extra encouragement can help us close the gender gap and ensure diverse, innovative minds are working with STEM fields such as mathematics, tech careers like computer network architect or engineering. 

Engineer Girl is a site that acknowledges the current gap and seeks to close it. Featuring role models, information for girls on what kinds of engineering careers are available, and resources for pursuing jobs in engineering, the site is all about encouraging girls in STEM. 

4. Master Tools

One of the most important factors in getting both kids and adults interested in STEM projects is allowing them to explore, discover, and yes, fail, in a safe environment. Master Tools are simulation and modeling tools, introducing the concepts of computational modeling. One of the tools allows users to create a simulated galaxy, exploring and discovering as they use the simulation. 

5. What Parents Need to Know About STEM

Parents play a huge role in their children’s education, but they may not always feel equipped to help their child learn about STEM subjects. Gaining more confidence in these subjects can help parents encourage their children and ensure they’re on the right track. What Parents Need to Know About STEM outlines exactly what a well-rounded STEM education looks like throughout a child’s life and can act as a guideline for unsure parents. 

Resources Are Out There—You Just Have to Look

The good news about STEM education is that there are countless great resources for kids, parents, and teachers—you just have to look. A simple search will help you find activities, lessons, and other great options for helping kids get excited about STEM and feeling confident in their own abilities. Every subject in school is important, but when it comes to a child’s future in the workplace, putting an extra emphasis on STEM can help set them up for success. 

For more STEM ideas, follow GPB Education on twitter and Facebook.