The NYC Department of Education’s STEM Education Framework describes STEM education as a methodology that “involves the study of Science and Mathematics, and the meaningful integration of Technology and Engineering to provide opportunities for innovative problem-solving. Using the engineering design process, students identify problems, develop and test possible solutions, and ultimately reach a solution.” Younger students need experiences with engineering and technology if they’re going to succeed in our 21st

-century world — a world that increasingly depends on these disciplines. The more we watch children the more we realize that they have a natural knack for engineering but our traditional rigid Maths and Language curricula actually dampens their ability and creativity, while the modern world requires problem solving skills as

a basic literacy.

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To tackle engineering e.g. students may read about a native Iranian girl, Fatima, who is snapping

pictures near her tribal home when she discovers oil on the surface of a close by river. Fatima

explores the extent of damage to the eco system on which her community depends, seeing

the far reaching social and environmental effects of water of pollution. These small activities have a far

reaching impact where students develop critical thinking skills.

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Problem-solving skills require concrete examples with hands on solutions because this means far

more to children then abstract concepts like fractions, decimals, etc. We aim to develop students

thinking creatively, critically and collaboratively so that they will be better prepared for life in

general.

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By incorporating STEM education into the regular curriculum, elementary schools are in the

perfect position to foster in girls and boys, at a young age, an interest in these subjects that

continues through to high school, college, and the workplace.

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