If Stem Nurtured, Economic Roots Thrive

Oct 29, 11:49 PM

Current Headlines: By SCOTT GORDON

Last month, I introduced and discussed the importance of the STEM disciplines - science, technology, engineering and mathematics - and how developing a world-class education system in those areas in our region is a key to the economic future of Southwest Indiana.

With fewer individuals selecting careers in those fields - including teaching them - education, business and political leaders have indicated that our nation is in both a gathering storm and a crisis.

Southwestern Indiana is no exception. We are seeing a shift toward a knowledge-based economy rooted in science and technology. To be on the leading edge and to prepare for current and future trends, we must act now. Developing a strong workforce to support the new generation of science- and technology-based industry is vital to this region.

Such a workforce will not only support but also attract high- tech business and industry to our area and bolster our economy.

Where do we start? How do we get there? How can we be successful? Who is responsible for developing this world-class STEM education system? Can such an educational system be sustained? These questions and others must be asked and solutions must be found for our region to be seen as a leader in this educational revitalization.

While it may "take a village to raise a child," it is going to take an entire region to build a world-class STEM education system. No single entity can solve this crisis alone.

While these efforts will take significant funding, time, collaboration and leadership, there are many simple things all of us can do now.

Parents can play a role by encouraging their children to explore, inquire and innovate. We have a variety of outstanding regional locations where kids can learn and explore, including the Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, the Koch Family Children's Museum of Evansville, Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve, Howell Wetlands, Harmonie State Park and countless other venues.

Teachers can work with one another to develop exciting hands-on, inquiry-based exercises for students to better learn and understand concepts. In addition, encouraging experimentation, innovation and participation in local and regional science fairs/expos can increase and encourage student interest.

Higher education institutions must play a role. When our children reach college, they need stimulating, exciting and active learning experiences.

Higher education and K-12 can learn from each other, work together to identify and close gaps and share best practices.

Business and industry can develop internships for students and/ or teachers and develop programs to "share a scientist" with a K-12 classroom.

Policymakers have a role in working to shape legislation to promote education initiatives, support funding of new programs and help in defining the vision of our region.

Growth and prosperity will follow.

Scott Gordon is the dean of the Pott School of Engineering and Science at the University of Southern Indiana.

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