On April 24, 2012, The Maryland State Board of Education accepted the definition of STEM Education and STEM Standards of Practice presented by the Office of STEM Initiatives. The definition of STEM Education and the STEM Standards of Practice reflect the skills and knowledge students must master to be prepared to meet the increasing demand of the workplace where STEM skills are required.

STEM Education Defined:

STEM education is an approach to teaching and learning that integrates the content and skills of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.  STEM Standards of Practice guide STEM instruction by defining the combination of behaviors, integrated with STEM content, which is expected of a proficient STEM student. These behaviors include engagement in inquiry, logical reasoning, collaboration, and investigation.  The goal of STEM education is to prepare students for post-secondary study and the 21^st century workforce.

STEM Standards of Practice:

The titles of the seven STEM Standards of Practice are:

1. Learn and Apply Rigorous Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Content
2. Integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Content
3. Interpret and Communicate STEM Information
4. Engage in Inquiry
5. Engage in Logical Reasoning
6. Collaborate as a STEM Team
7. Apply Technology Appropriately

Maryland STEM Brochure

STEM Standards of Practice 

STEM Toolkit

The STEM toolkit contains resources to support teachers in the classroom.