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STEM
The idea of STEM came from the need to change the way we educate kids so when they enter the job force they possess the skills needed for high demand jobs . “ Students need more in-depth knowledge of math and science , plus the ability to integrate and apply that knowledge to solve the challenges facing our nation .” ( edweek . com ) “ Children who study STEM also develop a variety of skills that are essential for success : critical thinking and problem solving , creativity and innovation , communication , collaboration , and entrepreneurship , to name a few .”
Supporters of STEM say that projects promote kids ’ artistic abilities because creativity and innovation must be used to come up with solutions to problems . Therefore , they do not see the need to intentionally add the arts . STEM projects are already promoting creativity , communication , and writing skills . Simply taking a look around will show us that engineers are indeed a creative group as we witness the many marvels they have designed . Some educators believe that STEM should remain as it is and art should be supplemented separately in the classroom because it gives kids the opportunity for individual artistic expression vs . the team projects that are used in STEM .
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