Stem Competition 20+ Examples of different models
Annex A: STEM Competition Background
What is STEM Education?
STEM is an interdisciplinary and inquiry-based approach towards education, with a particular
focus on educating students in four specific disciplines science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM education integrates concepts that are usually taught as separate subjects in different
classes and emphasizes the application of knowledge to real-life situations. A lesson or unit in a
STEM class is typically based around finding a solution to a real-world problem and tends to
emphasize project-based learning.
Why is STEM Education Important?
In Pakistan, the test scores in maths and science are one of the lowest among all subjects. PEC's 2019 report shows that of the more than a million students who took the exam at Grade 8 level, the average score in science was 52%. While ASER'S 2019 report shows that even by Grade 10, 27% of students cannot do 2-digit division. This shows much potential for improvement in STEM in Pakistan,
The global economy is changing and current jobs are disappearing due to automation and new jobs are emerging every day because of technological advances. The continual advances in technology are changing the way students learn, connect, and interact every day. Skills developed by students through STEM provide them with the foundation to succeed at school and beyond.
Employer demand for STEM qualifications and skills is high, and will continue to increase in the future. If students are not equipped with these skills in schools today, they will not be able to compete in the job market causing decline in the economic prospects of Pakistan.
Studying STEM subjects with hands-on approach has the following benefits:
Fosters ingenuity and creativity
Builds resilience by allowing safe spaces for trial and error
Encourages experimentation
Encourages teamwork
Encourages knowledge application
Encourages tech use
Teaches problem-solving
Encourages adaption
STEM Competition
The STEM Competition will engage students, teachers, and parents in STEM activities at home/school, and increase their knowledge and interest in these subjects. It will also promote hands-on learning and curiosity among schools/districts and spark innovation. Moreover, it will create a directory of 'Super Scientists' who will be STEM champions in their respective districts, and the province. This Competition is intended to cover only one aspect of the approved STEM strategy of the School Education Department, Government of Punjab. With a particular focus on