We are forever hearing about the decline in the number of students who want to study science, technology, engineering, art, and maths, known as (STEAM), once they reach higher education. One of the main reasons for this is that they are seen as being ‘difficult’ subjects and when students are trying to win a place at their chosen university, studying these subjects is a risk.
Pupils from state schools are less likely to study these subjects compared with pupils from private schools, so the result is that the country has far less people graduating with the expertise it needs, and most of the people who do are from private schools.
Women are also very underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and maths, largely because they have almost always been seen as ‘boy’s subjects.’
Why is the lack of expertise a problem?
The less people the UK has with these skills, the more it puts us at a competitive disadvantage in business and otherwise. If we don’t have the skills needed in manufacturing and for the production of innovative technology, we will fall behind other countries, which will hurt our economy. So how do we reverse the decline? The answer lies in getting more kids interested in science and technology, at school and at home.
How to get your kids interested in STEAM
Studies have shown that kids do better in school when their parents are actively involved in their education. So how can you help your kids to become more interested in science, technology, engineering, and maths?
Encourage your kids to ask questions and be curious
Don’t talk about how you always hated maths at school, instead encourage them to recognise, and think about the importance of science, maths, and technology in the world around them.
Encourage kids to think about everyday activities that use maths, science, and technology
It could be calculating how much of an ingredient they need in a recipe or building something. Encourage them to realise that they are going to need these STEAM skills in everyday life.
Allow kids to think about what they want to be when they grow up
Help them to develop their curiosity about different careers, especially those related to science and technology. And it’s even better if you can get them to speak to people who work in those fields.
Enable them to take part in learning activities outside of school
Taking your kids to museums, planetariums, and interactive science learning centres can help them to become interested in maths, science, and technology. Show them that learning about science and technology doesn’t just have to happen in the classroom; it can be fun!
Bricks4kidz helps kids to learn about engineering, architecture, physics, and maths all by using LEGO® bricks!
Our workshops and after school clubs help children to develop their problem-solving skill, motor skills, and so much more.
Contact us to find out more!