How STEM education can help Hong Kong children to live their dreams

No one who sees how the world of work is changing can question the increasing emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) teaching within the school system.

Every sector will become reliant on systems, software and the know-how that makes it all come together, meaning that those entering the workforce – in whatever capacity – will have to be adept in the lingua franca of the global economy of the 21st century.

Those requirements explain the ongoing shift in Hong Kong to include more classes in computer science, coding, digital media and networks within the standard curriculum.

However, according to a US-based expert in the field, doing that is just one part of process. For STEM education to have maximum impact and truly prepare students for the world that awaits, it is also essential to take a different approach to teaching.

“It is more difficult to customise instruction than to stand in front of a class and lecture; it takes time and practise and a lot of support,” says Jeanne Century, director of outlier research and evaluation at the University of Chicago. “There is no simple model, but in the US we have seen how different school districts have thought about STEM education and focused on integrating the disciplines in the context of problem-based learning.”

The starting point is to establish a framework and philosophy to help students develop certain skills and characteristics. For example, they need to become critical thinkers who are creative and innovative in their approach to solving problems. They should be able to analyse data, support conclusions with evidence, and consider alternative arguments and viewpoints. And they must, of course, be able to communicate clearly and convincingly and show leadership.