There is an economic demand for STEAM workforce in the United States and yet the majority of young adults in America are unable to fill this demand. In California alone, jobs in the STEM sector are predicted to grow 22% by 2023 leaving local agencies, parents and communities reflecting on whether schools are truly preparing students for their future. The Committee on Integrated STEM education by the National Academy of Engineering and the National Research Council (NRC) emphasize that students learn both in the classroom and in the real world where K-12 regular school day and expanded informal learning are integrated.
This presentation will provide information on current STEM education policies; the most recent computer science and engineering state standards and definitions; and offer models of practices and implementations using innovative hands-on STEAM solutions that current school districts and departments use to move beyond the edge in creating STEAM ecosystems for students at the primary, secondary, and expanded learning settings.
