Literacy is key to getting students into STEM
2 min read
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Literacy is essential for students to independently check out and find out STEM principles, say two educators — Peter Delfyett, physicist, engineer and professor in optics and photonics at the College of Central Florida, and Carol Ann Clenton-Martin, principal of Desire Lake Elementary School in Apopka, Fla. Clenton-Martin suggests there is literacy in all STEAM topics as perfectly as in the school’s golf equipment, mentorship courses and just after-school choices.
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Resource connection The ability to read and write is an integral part of getting students into STEM, or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Literacy is often an overlooked tool in the world of STEM and could make the difference between a student completing or not completing their studies in the field.
It is no surprise that literacy is the foundation of almost all educational programs. When students lack the skills to read and write, they cannot fully access the knowledge and understanding of material taught in a STEM program. Being able to effectively communicate and understand directions is essential in gaining the necessary skills to pursue a career in the field.
It has been noted that nearly one in four young adults struggles with some form of low literacy. This means they might not even be aware of their full educational potential when it comes to pursuing a STEM-related program.
We need to make sure that students are exposed to literacy and reading methods well before they enter an academic STEM program. School libraries and reading programs must be made available to students of all ages and backgrounds. This can also help to nurture an appreciation for getting to know the world of knowledge outside of their own major or field of study.
In addition, instructors must ensure that literacy is incorporated into their STEM classes. This can range from including reading comprehension questions to making sure that the material is taught in a way that the students can understand. Student engagement is key to developing their literacy skills and giving them the tools they need to succeed in their STEM pursuits.
We owe it to the students to give them the literacy skills they need to succeed in STEM. We must make sure they are able to access and utilize the material given to them in functionally literate ways. With literacy, we can open doors to new worlds of knowledge and ignite in them the fire of passion that can help shape the future.
