THE IMPORTANCE OF MATHEMATICS IN STEM EDUCATION

STEM is an acronym for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. STEM education is critical for many reasons including the need to better prepare our students for higher education so they can be competitive in the United States and a global environment as well. Our contention is that mathematics is the foundation on which the other STEM disciplines are based. The earlier in their education that we can interest our students in mathematics and make them successful in the subject matter, the greater their achievement will be in the future. We will share ideas and present examples of incorporating mathematics into the K-12 system to motivate student interest and accomplishment. For the college or university student, various pedagogical strategies have been employed to ensure their success; we will speak to different models at this academic level as well. We will also discuss strategies for strengthening and rebuilding the mathematics major. A student successful in mathematics can use his knowledge and skills to study science, technology, engineering, and higher mathematics. Without a solid foundation, it would be difficult.