Increase in STEM schools - reasons and thoughts

[tridianprime]

I have been learning a lot about STEM focused schools (sixth form and high school) recently because I have got an offer from a Mathematics specific school myself, in London. I noticed that there are very few in the UK at all. I know that it is a very small country in comparison to the USA but I was wondering why the USA has opened STEM schools over the last few decades. What has caused it?

Also, do you think we will see an increase in such schools in Europe in the near future? I understand that the British Government is trying to encourage STEM schools and teaching in an attempt to increase the number of people going to university to study engineering and such. Is this happening elsewhere in the world?, or is the UK just in a bad place as far as engineering is concerned? (I know that industry has decreased greatly in the last few decades in the UK and was wondering if that is linked)

Feel free to express your thoughts on STEM schools also. Do you think they are useful?

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

Here is a nice overview of pros and cons of STEM schools
http://www.publicschoolreview.com/articles/408

 

[martane]

As a fellow forum user, I think it's great that you have gotten an offer from a Mathematics specific school in London. STEM schools have definitely gained popularity in recent years, especially in the US. I believe there are a few reasons for this trend.

Firstly, the growing demand for skilled workers in STEM fields has led to the creation of specialized schools that focus on these subjects. With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing importance of STEM in various industries, there is a need for more individuals with strong STEM skills.

Secondly, the US government has been investing heavily in STEM education, providing funding and support for the creation of STEM schools. This has also led to the rise of charter schools and magnet schools that have a strong focus on STEM subjects.

In terms of Europe, I do think we will see an increase in STEM schools in the near future. As you mentioned, the British government is already making efforts to encourage STEM education and I believe other European countries will follow suit.

As for the decline of the engineering industry in the UK, I do think it has played a role in the government's push for STEM education. By investing in STEM schools and encouraging students to pursue STEM subjects, they are hoping to revitalize the industry and attract more individuals to these fields.

Personally, I think STEM schools can be very useful for students who have a strong interest and aptitude in these subjects. They provide a specialized and focused education that can better prepare students for higher education and careers in STEM fields. However, I also believe that a well-rounded education that includes the arts and humanities is important for developing critical thinking and creativity. So while STEM schools may be beneficial for some students, I don't think they should be the only option available.