In the rapidly advancing digital era, the imperative of fostering critical thinking and scientific knowledge has gained unprecedented prominence. Across the globe, there is a paradigm shift from conventional science education towards an application-based learning model, encouraging students to apply academic concepts to real-life problems. This transition is pivotal in the evolution of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, also known as STEM education, and if done well, will ignite the spirit of inquiry and innovation among students.
Uddhav Suradkar, a ninth-grade student at Sundarbai Marathe School in Mumbai (India), exemplifies the transformative impact of STEM education. The innovative early warning system, employing sensors, detects oncoming vehicles’ speed and triggers an alarm if they exceed the prescribed limit. Uddhav’s project showcases the practical problem-solving power of STEM.
Udhhav is not alone. He is part of a cohort of more than 25,000 7th to 10th-grade students across 150 government schools in Maharashtra, Goa, West Bengal and Gujarat that have enthusiastically started activity-based learning in the science subject. This initiative has significantly enhanced their comprehension and fostered a newfound interest in STEM. This initiative actively involves students in analytical thinking, creative problem-solving and facilitates a pathway towards careers in science, engineering, and vocational learning. Notably, we have observed a remarkable 25% surge in the pass rates for 10th-grade students in science across 50 government schools.
Project Jigyasa’s comprehensive approach extends beyond students to teachers, as we’ve successfully trained 150 teachers from 100 government schools in activity-based learning. We have effectively supported these teachers in implementing this innovative approach within their classrooms. Furthermore, this intervention has empowered students to embark on science projects to solve real-life problems. Over three years, more than 6,000 such projects have been initiated and completed by government school students, showcasing our intervention’s tangible impact and success.
The STEM education landscape in India has undergone a profound transformation, shifting from traditional theoretical instruction to a hands-on learning approach. Historically, STEM education prioritised theoretical concepts, remote memorisation and examination-based assessments, but an awareness of these constraints has led to a paradigm shift. Present-day STEM education in India prioritises experiential and practical learning methodologies, integrating laboratories, experiments and interactive science fairs into the curriculum. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of scientific principles and cultivates students’ innovation and collaborative problem-solving skills.
On the policy level in India, the National Policy on Education (1968) laid the foundation for prioritising science and technology education, further solidified by STEM education guidelines in the National Curriculum Framework (2005). Despite these initiatives, significant implementation gaps persist. The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER 2022) reveals that only 18.4% of surveyed schools have functional computer labs. Emphasising quality STEM education, as outlined in India’s National Education Policy 2020, is vital to fostering critical thinking, encouraging multidisciplinary learning, and establishing robust foundations in scientific discovery from an early age.
Recognising the underrepresentation of women in STEM disciplines, recent initiatives in India emphasise equal opportunities, encouraging girls to pursue STEM education and careers. Mentorship programs, scholarships and awareness campaigns strive to dismantle stereotypes and create a level playing field. Similarly, marginalised communities, including Dalits, Tribals, Nomadic Tribes, and Denotified Tribes, face socio-economic challenges limiting access to quality STEM education. Bridging this educational gap can empower individuals from these backgrounds, unlocking their potential and contributing to a more inclusive and diverse landscape for scientific and technological advancements in India.
The global shift towards an application-based STEM education model marks a crucial milestone in the digital age. India’s evolution from traditional theoretical approaches to hands-on learning signifies a progressive era fostering a more profound comprehension of scientific principles. Initiatives promoting gender equality and inclusivity among marginalised communities are breaking barriers and empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancements. As India pioneers a more inclusive STEM landscape, it will nurture innovation and ensure a diverse and equitable future for scientific progress.
Mashkoor Alam is the Head of the North Central Cluster at ActionAid Association
