At SchoolAmanda Vaden
There are several STEM trends in education we're expecting to see in 2022.

2022 is in full swing and all of us at Sphero are looking ahead to an exciting new year in STEM and computer science education. 

We know that employment in STEM jobs has grown by 79% in the past 30 years and is projected to continue growing at a higher rate than non-STEM jobs.(1) As a result, STEM education is changing to build interest and skills in STEM topics from a young age through interactive, play-based learning.

As we kick off 2022, we’ve compiled some of the biggest trends in education we’re expecting to see both in the classroom and at home. But first, let’s explore why STEM education is growing in importance and popularity. 

Why STEM Education is Important for All Students

STEM skills are important because they enhance our capacity to innovate and use technology and science as a tool to solve problems. In addition to learning the technical aspects of STEM needed to succeed in future career roles, STEM and learning through a STEM mindset also enhance 21st Century Skills, critical thinking, communication, technology literacy, and more. These skills are broken down into three categories: learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills. 

Learning through STEM provides a foundation for successful learning in school but they also help to ensure students are successful outside of the classroom, in real-world scenarios in life and future workplaces. 

STEM Trends in Education 

While trends in education are always changing how we approach and think about learning, a common thread is technology’s impact. While it can sometimes be perceived as negative, the reality is that technology has greatly expanded access to education(2), which ultimately brings quality education to more students in more places.

1. Starting STEM Learning Early 

One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is teaching coding concepts as early as Pre-K. Our award-winning indi robot for young learners (4+) was recently named a top education innovation

2. Screenless Learning Options

Kids have had a lot of screen time over the past couple of years. As a result, screenless STEM learning tools are becoming fast favorites for educators, parents, and kids. Additionally, for many educators, parents, and students who are just starting out with STEM, unplugged coding activities and games are a fun and approachable way to learn the foundations of programming and coding without the need for a screen or device. 

3. Utilizing STEM Concepts Across All Subjects 

A wide range of subjects can benefit from incorporating STEM into lessons. We’re seeing an increase in coding concepts being taught through music, languages, and art activities, for example.

4. Robotics Competitions Growing in Popularity

Robotics competitions are a fun, interactive way to promote social and emotional learning (SEL) and collaboration. Participation in events like Sphero’s Global Challenge is likely to increase as kids look for new ways to connect and collaborate.

5. Accessibility and inclusivity for all learning styles

Play-based learning makes STEM topics more accessible for kids of all ages, abilities, and learning styles. We’re expecting to see a greater emphasis on this in 2022.

How to Embrace These Current Trends in STEM Education 

Whether you’re new to teaching STEM or a seasoned specialist in educational technology, there are ways to incorporate these trends in education into your existing curriculum and classroom. 

Sphero programmable robots and littleBits design-and-build STEAM kits provide hands-on opportunities for students who are just beginning their coding journey or looking to be challenged with advanced programming. 

If you’re ready to get started with STEM education in your classroom, find resources to pave the way here or contact a Sphero Education Specialist today! 

(1)https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2018/01/09/diversity-in-the-stem-workforce-varies-widely-across-jobs/

(2)https://online.purdue.edu/blog/education/how-has-technology-changed-education

At school