future
Makenna
Faces of Technology
Science , technology , engineering and math , better known as STEM , has been a focus in our schools for many years to help students stay competitive in a rapidly evolving world .
According to the U . S . Department of Commerce , STEM occupations were projected to grow at a rate of 17 percent from 2008 to 2018 , while others grow at 9.8 percent . It ’ s clear to see how the rise of an innovation economy impacts even the youngest students in preparation for the jobs and challenges of the future . However , is there a key to sparking that interest ?
“ I don ’ t really know , but I just like math ,” said Makenna , 8 , attending school in Orange County .
Makenna ’ s sentiment may be shared by numerous students , while a few in The Corridor region explain their interest in STEM subjects . Their excitement is apparent when discussing special projects and the use of technology in the classroom . The opportunity to learn in different ways seems to keep interest going .
For example , Makenna completed research , an essay and art project on President John F . Kennedy . She chose him to learn more about the man who set the country on a path to learn more about the universe .
“ I like space a lot ,” said Makenna . “ I like learning about the Earth , constellations … and really think it ’ s cool when stars grow old and explode .”
Among many things , Makenna would like to be an astronaut when she grows up . Her interests , however , are not limited to space . She also participates in an engineering program at school to build objects out of Legos , enjoys reading , riding her bike and playing Minecraft .
Her affinity for space is shared by Andrew , 9 , who attends school in Orange County . He first felt inspired to pursue rocket science in first grade because of a text book .
“ I saw all the photos in my text book and thought it would be cool ,” said Andrew . florida . HIGH . TECH 2017 51