BIO.4.C
The student is expected to research and explore resources such as museums, libraries, professional organizations, private companies, online platforms, and mentors employed in a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field in order to investigate STEM careers.
Knowledge and Skills Statement
Scientific and engineering practices. The student knows the contributions of scientists and recognizes the importance of scientific research and innovation on society.
Further Explanation
The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Occupations List was developed to analyze STEM occupations in Texas. This resource can be used as a reference by educators to inform programming and when advising students about education requirements in different STEM careers. The Texas Education Agency used criteria to determine which occupations align with the STEM definition in Texas. Texas has defined STEM as a methodology of applying content to innovate products or processes to solve problems. Occupations on the STEM List require employees to use science and math to design solutions using technology regularly.
Supporting Information
Research
Blotnicky, Karen A.; Franz-Odendaal, Tamara; French, Frederick; and Joy, Phillip. "A Study of the Correlation between STEM Career Knowledge, Mathematics Self-efficacy, Career Interests, and Career Activities on the Likelihood of Pursuing a STEM Career among Middle School Students." International Journal of STEM Education 5, no.1 (2018): 22. https//:doi.10.1186/s40594-018-0118-3
Summary: The results of this study show that students in middle school have limited STEM career knowledge for subject requirements and what sort of activities these careers involve. Furthermore, students with low MSE have a declining interest in STEM careers. Our data thus support the need to improve access to knowledge to facilitate students’ understanding of STEM careers and the nature of STEM work.