This project has been funded with support from the European Commission.
This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission.
This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
EFFECTIVE USE OF TECHNOLOGIES TO PROMOTE SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE
Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, referred to as STEM, are disciplines of critical importance for the future of Europe and its economic growth. All industrial sectors need qualified professionals in STEM to boost the pace of innovation, employment and productivity, and consequently Europe’s ability to compete globally. Although STEM impact our lives tremendously, the interest for these subjects among students remains too low, as they are often perceived as tedious and uninspiring disciplines. This situation is resulting in a gap, a demand for more graduates in STEM. The Rocard Report (2007) observed a decrease in the proportion of students who choose scientific subjects at university in many European countries. In some subjects (mathematics, physical sciences), it is sometimes the number of students that has dropped. Also alarming is the gender gap as it appears girls are much less interested in scientific subjects than boys. This disaffection for scientific studies is attributed to the way science lessons are delivered in secondary, and even primary schools. The report makes several recommendations, among other increasing inquiry-based learning to raise students’ interest.
