Advocating for STEM

Assessment Description: Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education is crucial for preparing students to meet the demands of the 21st century. STEM education in the early years helps children develop critical thinking skills and encourages inquiry and analysis. Although educators agree on the importance of STEM education in early childhood, common misconceptions about the integration of STEM often impede STEM education in the early childhood classroom. You are tasked with presenting the benefits of STEM integration in the early childhood classroom to other early childhood educators. Select one of the following deliverables to share with colleagues: 12-15 slide narrated digital presentation Include the following in your deliverable of choice:

Provide a research-based rationale advocating for the inclusion of STEM education in the early childhood years including how STEM instruction supports developmental and individual differences.

Identify 2-3 concerns families may have about the integration of STEM in early childhood education and provide a response to each concern advocating for the importance of STEM education for young children.

• Discuss the research-based benefits of integrating STEM into multiple content areas in the early childhood classroom.