What is STEM/STEAM? What is CCL?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. STEAM has the addition of an “A” for arts. CCL stands for Career Connected Learning.
STEM/STEAM education is trans-disciplinary; the subjects are not isolated but rather taught in a deeply integrated and applied manner that mirrors how we naturally use knowledge. STEM and STEAM education offer the opportunity for career-connected learning, experiential learning tied to specific careers. A primary goal of the Oregon Coast STEM Hub (OCSH) is to integrate career-connected learning into the experiences and activities we offer in ways that benefit both students and our coastal communities.
The Oregon Department of Education offers a CCL framework with four stages: Career awareness, exploration, preparation, and training. Examples of experiences offered by OCSH in each of these stages includes educator professional development that includes career connections, experiential activities for K-8 students in which STEM professionals work directly with groups of students, high school student internships, and educator externships. OCSH partners with numerous organizations and industries along the coast with STEM missions and careers. Through these partnerships and the expansion of CCL experiences for students, we aim to build opportunity for all students, strengthen the economies of our communities, and promote workforce diversity. Learn more about STE(A)M Education in Oregon.
Why STEAM/CCL?
- It allows you to work in a challenging, rewarding career with the opportunity to make a difference.
- According to Forbes, in 2022, STEM workers earned a median annual wage of $97,980, considerably higher than the $44,670 average for non-STEM occupations.
- The National Science Foundation estimates 80% of jobs in the next decade will require math and science knowledge.
- Non-STEM fields increasingly require STEM skills.
Beyond Bridge Building
Sometimes when people think about STEM, the first thing that comes to mind is building bridges, whether it's students working with popsicle sticks, or engineers in hard hats working with steel beams. While building a bridge is a STEM activity, you may be surprised to discover just how many different STEM activities and careers there are out in the world that don't have anything to do with bridges! For example, here is a short list of some STEM-related careers:
Veterinarian | Forester | Architect | Graphic Designer | Investment Banker | Cryptographer | Physician | Pastry Chef | Zookeeper | Massage Therapist | Webmaster | Video Game Designer | Firefighter | Auto Mechanic | Wind Turbine Service Technician | NOAA Research Vessel Crewmember
Need to Ask a Scientist?
Sometimes, university departments or individual researchers get emails from young students (or their parents) who are looking for answers to questions for school projects. Sometimes, interviewing an expert is part of an assignment for school. The Planetary Society has some great tips and suggestions for how and when to contact researchers for help.
Interviewing an expert for a school assignment?