U.S. Next Generation Science Standards: Possibilities, Not Prescriptions for STEM Teacher Education

Abstract

There are many calls for STEM education in our field, and it is noted that it is due in part, to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) being relatively new standards that seek to promote STEM education. NGSS are indeed an impetus for STEM education, but do not provide a pathway. Instead, there is a focus on science education standards grades K-12. NGSS also include engineering standards but does not specifically include mathematics or technology standards. However, one does not need to look too deeply to notice that mathematics and technology connections can be made within NGSS, as many of the physical science standards have connections to mathematics, and the scientific communications standards clearly connect to technology in the classroom. In this chapter, we explore the current state of STEM and how it is being discussed and connected to the impact that NGSS has on STEM. The chapter will begin with our definition of STEM, followed by a discussion of other various definitions of STEM, to share how it is important to have a framework in terms of thinking about STEM in common fashions in order to communicate within the field. We look deeply into NGSS to determine where the emphases of engineering, technology, and mathematics are included in the document. We share the potential for meaningful integration of all disciplines of STEM within NGSS. We highlight the potential for NGSS to encourage and support STEM in a meaningful way that not only enhances science education, but also meaningfully connects the other disciplines that comprise STEM. We include examples for how NGSS can be used to encourage STEM education in meaningful ways from various grade levels, including primary and intermediate elementary grades, as well as middle and high school levels.