Think Like A Scientist

STEM the acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math it’s the new “buzz word” on the lips of President Obama, industry CEO’s, and educators. Thanks to Judith Ramaley,  President of Winona State University who coined the term STEM in 2001. Science and math are critical to a basic understanding of the universe, while engineering and technology are means for people to interact with the universe. STEM weaves those elements of human action and understanding into all aspects of education, Ramaley said. STEM education is transforming the way teachers teach and the way students think nationwide. Add the vowel “A” to STEM for STEAM, “A” stands for arts. Schools across the nation are incorporating the arts in their STEM programs. The integration of the arts and sciences are a natural addition to existing STEM curriculum. STEM education is where it’s at these days and will be for many years to come. School districts across the nation are jumping on the “band wagon” to incorporate STEM practices within their schools, starting with long-term meaningful STEM professional staff development for their teachers. Check out the following article  to read more about the philosophy of STEM education.

The Google Doodle today features artwork depicting Marie Curie working in a Chemistry lab. November 7th marks Madame Curie’s 144th birthday. Google Doodle is the highest honor the search engine can bestow on a significant date, and Marie Curie is well-deserving of the honor. Marie Sklodowska Curie (7 November 1867-4 July 1934) was a Polish-born French physicist and chemist. She is famous for her pioneering research on radioactivity (a term she coined). She was the first person to win two Nobel Prizes, and the first woman to win a Nobel Prize.  The 1903 Nobel Prize in Physics was shared with her husband Pierre Curie and a third scientist, Henri Becquerel. She was the sole winner of the 1911 Nobel Prize in Chemistry. She developed techniques for isolating radioactive isotopes. Additionally, she is credited with the discovery of two elements, polonium and radium. Check out the youtube video below of the 1943 movie trailer ” Madame Curie.”   Hollywood actor Greer Garson does a fine job of portraying Marie Curie’s passion for science.