The headline: “$1.2 Million Grant Funds STEM Study” seemed like good news. Relevant anthropology arguments aside, it still seems obvious that emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) subjects is a more than sensible approach in today’s and, especially tomorrow’s, economy. Indeed, maintaining a citizenry that’s well-versed in the STEM fields is an acknowledged major priority of the public education agenda of the U.S. That’s why STEM familiarity is a key factor in issuing work visas for immigrants.
Then I read further.
A USF assistant professor of sociology was awarded the grant by the National Science Foundation to study what makes high school students pursue, or not pursue, STEM careers. What?
Yes, we always want to challenge and encourage our students–across genders, races and ethnicities–and give them the best opportunity to succeed. Of course.
But let’s at least acknowledge the bottom line. STEM courses are hard. You have to be notably smart to take them and do well. That’s what most influences students to pursue–or not pursue– STEM careers. You need a million-dollar grant to tell you that?