Computer and STEM Careers for Kids

Computer and STEM Careers for Kids

Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are four vital areas of study that make up the STEM fields. In today’s world, using a computer is a common part of many people’s days.

You might not think much about looking up information on the Web to learn about something or write a report. Even things like the Internet have evolved and changed since they were invented.

People who study these subjects can go on to have a lot of important and interesting jobs. But even if you don’t grow up to work as an engineer or scientist, it’s still important to learn about these topics in school.

You might discover a strong interest in a field that leads you to choose it as your future career.

Science

Science is a very large subject that includes many different areas. Science can include study of the environment, animals, space, oceans, rocks, weather, and plants. Someone who studies science works to learn about the natural world.

With this knowledge, a scientist can work to help people, animals, or the environment. Studying science will teach you how to research things, do experiments, and observe what’s around you.

Someone who wants to study science could eventually become a microbiologist, a medical scientist, a conservation scientist, a chemist, a park ranger, a teacher, or an astronomer.

• NASA Kids Club

• Earth Records

• Science After School(PDF)

• Environmental Education Resources(PDF)

• Lesson Plan for Upper Elementary: Peas in a Pod: Genetics(PDF)

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Technology

Technology is everywhere in the world, and it is expanding every day with new inventions. Technology is connected to both science and engineering, but this field focuses on knowing how to use tools to achieve goals.

Studying technology would give you the ability to understand how to develop new inventions, how to use new technology, and how technology affects people and the world.

Studying technology involves learning about computers, computer programming, and information technology. Many different careers are available in this field, including computer programming, software development, and technical writing.

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Engineering

An engineer knows a lot about science and math. Using this scientific and mathematical knowledge, an engineer can design a system or a device for a specific job or goal.

Sometimes, in the process of designing something, an engineer will need to test it to make sure it works. This testing process is the same process that scientists use when they do experiments.

The engineering field has many different options for careers, including mechanical, civil, electrical, materials, nuclear, robotics, and industrial engineering. To become an engineer, a student would need to learn about math, science, and technology.

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• The Rationale for Adding Engineering Is Elementary to Your Curriculum(PDF)

• Engineer a Dam(PDF)

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Math

Math is also closely related to both science and engineering. Someone who studies math is able to look at information and make predictions. Scientists and engineers often write out their ideas as mathematical concepts and equations.

Someone who wants to work in a mathematical career might work as a cost estimator, a teacher, an economist, a mathematician, or a statistician.

You will need a strong mathematical foundation to work in this field. Necessary math skills include logical thinking, abstract thinking, algebra, geometry, and more.

• STEMSprouts(PDF)

• Skill-Building Math Games and Activities(PDF)

• Improper Fractions and Mixed Numbers Gizmo

STEM Career Options

Most teachers agree that studying in the STEM fields of science, technology, engineering, and math can lead to a lot of different and important jobs. As technology continues to move forward, people need to understand how to use it.

Using technology well helps scientists and engineers think of new ideas and new products that will solve problems and help people.

Before choosing what you want to study and what you might do for a living in the future, it might help to think about your interests.

Everyone has interests and things they enjoy, which can help people choose a career. Taking a quiz about your interests might help you discover that you really like science, technology, engineering, or math.