STEAM is an educational movement to add the Arts (A) into STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) curriculum and careers. It’s about the importance of integrating design thinking into scientific and technological discovery.

According to a piece in U.S. News and World Report, opportunities to teach STEAM are all around us. Geometry, the study of shapes, is integral to creating art. Engineering demands an understanding of function and a good eye for design. Science and technology can also have stunningly beautiful results. Just look at the images from the Hubble telescope for example.

Young people who may not naturally gravitate to STEM can find a new level of interest when art and design become part of the equation. By exploring STEAM disciplines and careers, they learn that creative thinking has value and is what drives success behind some of the biggest companies in the world.

In fact, some of the Best STEM Jobs for 2017 include careers that demand the kind of art and design innovation that goes beyond book learning.

Students who are ready to learn more about the possibilities for their future in STEM and STEAM can find hours upon hours of reading and exploration at STEMJobs.com. There is a quiz to “Discover Your STEM Type™” from categories that include Designer, Maker, and Producer. Students can also find a list of emerging careers that will drive the future.

Additional STEM/STEAM resources for you and your students can be found at:
Tech & Learning, “Turning STEM to STEAM…24 Resources”
National Public Radio, Where Science Meets Art