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Essay / Stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) educational approach
STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It was first invented in the early 1990s, but was primarily focused on science and mathematics (White, 2014). In the 21st century, new technologies are designed and emerging every day, and people who can use science, mathematics, and engineering to solve new problems will be in demand. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay Today, STEM is quickly becoming an educational initiative because of its integrative approach. Today, every job requires a certain number of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills. We also have a great article on STEM for students and teachers, check it out. But in Pakistan, many students graduate without these skills. This isn’t just bad for our students; it's bad for our communities that don't have the well-trained workforce needed to attract today's jobs. Maintaining our scientific and technological leadership is essential to our economy, our national security and our future. It's not just about science and math; it’s about being ready for college, career, and life (Mcdanial, 2016). The most serious challenge our country faces regarding STEM education is the lack of female students in STEM fields. It is imperative that all students have access to quality STEM education programs. Female students should be encouraged from a young age to engage in STEM studies. Many talented female students fail to complete their degree in a STEM field for a variety of reasons. Pakistan is at a crucial stage of its development and education has an important role to play in encouraging further development. The education and inclusion of women in educational institutions is particularly important. The situation in developed countries is no different, STEM subjects are disproportionately dominated by male students (Christie et, al. 2017). According to World Bank data from 2014, among all out-of-school children in Pakistan, 57% are girls. Unfortunately, girls face discrimination when it comes to accessing education, and they then face more discrimination even when they are in school. Later in life, fewer women than men earn doctorates, and in Pakistan, women are seriously underrepresented in STEM careers. There are a whole set of reasons why the gender gap in Stem exists. One is a pipeline problem: fewer girls than boys choose to study STEM subjects in high school and college. Social and peer pressure, negative stereotypes, lack of encouragement, and perceived marginalization of women working in STEM fields are one of the major factors affecting the existence of women in STEM fields. Many theories have also been developed to try to explain how these phenomena influence young women and their communities. The first of these is “rational choice” theory, which refers to the rational decision-making process that children and young people use to make decisions during their education. Rational choice attributes these choices to a cost/benefit analysis, balancing long-term utility and short-term failure (Gabay, et.al,., 1983).