On paper, it seems like the perfect opportunity for bipartisanship. A $1 billion White House initiative scheduled to launch this year hopes to keep STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) teachers in the classroom through professional development and salary incentives. However, two questions loom on whether or not the initiative will be successful. The first, and most obvious, is funding. The second is a bit tricker: could working conditions in a classroom prevent dedicated STEM teachers from sticking around?
Even in Washington’s fiercely partisan state, politicians should be able to come up with creative fiscal solutions. But all the money in the world can’t help teachers tackle the often-hectic nature of a school environment– a place that is far more rigid and less fluid in structure than, say, a tech start-up or laboratory. One method that could help solve problems with the latter is simple engagement. Keeping students engaged helps facilitate learning, which means everything can fall into place. Gaming is one method that could help build interest in STEM. Coaster Crafter: Using Game to Build Interest in S.T.E.M. from National Cable and Telecommunications Association and National Cable and Telecommunications Association on FORA.tv
