STEM education involves enhancing student knowledge, understanding, and critical thinking in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It provides opportunities for students to engage in learning that is interactive, inclusive, innovative and interdisciplinary. While conceptions of STEM education may vary, its goals include increasing STEM literacy - "the knowledge and understanding of scientific and mathematical concepts and processes required for personal decision making, participation in civic and cultural affairs, and economic productivity for all students" (National Research Centre, 2011, p. 5) and encouraging and providing opportunities for all students to explore advanced degrees and careers in STEM and STEM-related fields.
National Research Council. (2011). Successful K-12 STEM education. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press.