USAGE OF STEM ORIENTED EDUCATION AS AN IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN INCREASING QUALITY OF SCIENCE EDUCATION FOR THE COLLEGE STUDENTS

Abstract

Beginning of the 21st century marked initiation of the discourse on the deficit of professionals in science and engineering. Hence, there is an emerging need in increasing quality and prioritization of science education, which is an essential element in developing highly technological information society. Yet, students exceedingly demonstrate lower interest in science subjects. Hence, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics )education should become one of the educational prioities and part of the state policy ultimately contributing to increased competitiveness of the national economy and human capital and one of the innovation factors in education that meets the demand of the economy and society» [9]. This is what defines relevance of this article. The article covers the need of speicialized STEM education approach aimed at teaching science subject matter. It also defines benefits of STEM approach from the angle of effectiveness and quality of education. The article covers the role of the teacher as a scientific consultant in building competencies of the students enrolled in science with the introduction of the STEM approach. The scientific novelty of the article is that STEM education principles introduction in the college education space contributes to emergence of the principally new education model with new opportunities for both teachers and students. STEM education not only focuses on the science component of the education and innovative technologies, but also contributes to development of the person’s creativity. STEM oriented approach to education supports development of the “competencies of the 21st century” and provides a solid foundation for professional background of future teachers.