CIO – Bonnie Gardiner
“Right now, governments all over the world seem to agree on one thing — there is not only a damaging shortage of STEM workers in the pipeline, but an entire skills sinkhole that needs to be plugged…Some research would suggest it is not just a lack of STEM-specific skills that are hindering Australia’s ability to remain competitive, however, and despite the unquestionable need to encourage more STEM focus in schools and universities, we may require additional focus on what is normally seen as a completely separate entity – the arts. Changing the acronym to STEAM shifts the focus to arts education existing in conjunction to – or completely blended with – STEM studies. This could encourage creativity and design, drive more engagement and interest in STEM, while also enhancing cognitive abilities required for science and technology-focused subjects…where you bring the two things together, that’s where the greatest innovation occurs.”(more)