What subjects are included in STEM education?

STEM education is an interdisciplinary approach to learning that centers on four core disciplines:12

• Science: The study of the physical and natural world through observation and experimentation.31
• Technology: The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, including tools, systems, and digital literacy.31
• Engineering: The use of scientific and mathematical principles to design, build, and maintain structures, machines, and systems.31
• Mathematics: The study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and patterns, which serves as a foundational language for the other three fields.31

Rather than teaching these subjects in isolation, STEM education emphasizes an integrated approach where students apply rigorous academic concepts to real-world problems. This curriculum is designed to foster innovation and prepare students for a knowledge-based economy by connecting classroom learning with community, work, and global challenges. These educational experiences are provided across all grade levels, from preschool through post-doctorate, in both formal classroom settings and informal environments like after-school programs.23