What is STEM (or STEAM)?

STEM education is an interdisciplinary approach to learning where rigorous academic concepts are coupled with real-world lessons as students apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in contexts that make connections between school, community, work, and the global enterprise enabling the development of STEM literacy and with it the ability to compete in the new economy. (Tsupros, 2009)

Guardian Adventures approaches STEM learning in a unique manner: Through the context of story.  Often, STEM education is presented in project manner without much context as to the problem that the project can solve and why it is important.  This is a key difference from formal education which promotes learning for the sake of learning.  Our method is to offer learning that provides a solution to a problem the student wants to solve because they are emotionally engaged in the larger context.

STEM and story are a perfect union.  And over the decades, we have perfected that process.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (and Art, for STEAM) are all necessary throughout our lives as we navigate any number of challenges.  These can be as simple as learning how to operate our newest automobiles, or understanding why salt lowers the freezing point (and consequently, the melting point) of ice, to engineering a way to extract our wedding ring from the sink drain, or calculating the projected growth of our retirement fund.  The addition of Art in STEAM helps us think of solutions in a more varied and creative manner while also adding a human element to our endeavors.

Not everyone will use STEM or STEAM extensively in their careers.  But every career will certainly touch on aspects of these vital subjects.

Are you interested in adding STEM education to your curriculum or events?  Fill out the form below and let’s talk!

What is STEM from Live Science
The History of STEM from Florida A&M University
STEAM from Study International