The T in STEM Represents Technology

Why is Technology Important in STEM?

The basic goal of technology, which brings together tools to promote development, use, and information sharing, is to make chores easier and to solve many of humanity's issues. We must emphasize how beneficial technology is to our lives as it advances and makes our lives even more convenient. New technology development saves lives, improves employment, and makes the world a better place.

Technology has an impact on how people communicate, learn, and think. It contributes to society and influences how individuals interact on a daily basis. Learning has become more interactive and collaborative, allowing people to better engage with the topics they are learning and having difficulty with.

Technology Is All Around Us!

Almost every element of 21st-century living is influenced by technology, from transportation efficiency and safety to food and healthcare availability, sociability, and productivity. The internet's power has made it easier to build worldwide communities and share ideas and resources.

All of these items are examples of technology, whether they are useful (such as washing machines, tumble dryers, refrigerators, vehicles, flooring materials, windows, or door knobs) or recreational (such as televisions, Blu-ray players, games consoles, reclining chairs, or toys).

Careers In Technology

Professionals in technology occupations might work in a variety of fields, including healthcare and business. Technology careers are available in a variety of settings, including fast-paced startups, creative tech businesses, and tiny IT departments.

Computer programmers create code that allows computers, software, and other applications to function properly. To get started, programmers usually need a bachelor's degree and must learn several different programming languages.

Database administrators and managers deal with a lot of data. These experts organize and save information for later use. To keep their clients' data safe, database managers must implement security measures. A bachelor's degree is often required for entry-level database management positions.

Technology Activities For K-12

Hexbug Mazes (Grades K-6)

If you're an insect enthusiast, this small device is for you! The HEXBUG Nano has a motor that rotates an offset, which causes forces to rise and fall. The legs bend as a result of the downward force, and the Nano goes forward. The HEXBUG hops as a result of the up force, hefting the front legs and causing the legs to unbend. The bug moves as a result of this movement, which occurs 100 times every second.

The miniature robotic bug that can skitter its way through any maze once it is turned on. You can build a maze out of cardboard, legos, and even straws. Watch as it whizzes through merry-go-rounds, chases down a fellow nano Nitro in a high-speed race, and more!

Code.org and Story Bird (Grades 6-10)

Code.org is a non-profit dedicated to increasing computer science education in schools, and it's a terrific place for students to begin. Computer Science Discoveries is one of their middle school computer curriculum lesson plans. This introductory course is intended for students in grades 6 through 10, and it can be taught as a semester or year-long course.

It takes a broad look at computer science, including topics like programming, physical computing, HTML/CSS, and data. Computer science allows students to be creative, collaborate, solve issues, and have fun. Through interactive exercises, the course encourages students to construct their own websites, apps, games, and physical computer devices.

Female Technologists & Inventors That Changed the World

Susan Kare, dubbed "the Betsy Ross of the Personal Computer" by some, was the designer who, with her fine typography and distinctive visual design skills, helped bring the Apple computer to life. She shaped several of the now-common Mac interface features, including as the command icon, which she discovered while searching through a book of symbols, while working alongside Steve Jobs.

She also designed the Happy Mac icon, which appeared when Apple users turned on their computers, and the trash can icon, which showed users where they could discard things they no longer needed. It's thanks to Kare's attempts to make the computer feel more like a buddy — and less like a machine — that Jobs is credited with making technology more approachable through Apple's devices.

The first home security system was invented by Marie Van Brittan Brown. She is also credited with creating the first closed-circuit television system. Brown was born on October 22, 1922, in Queens, New York, and lived there until her death on February 2, 1999, at the age of 76. Her mother was from Pennsylvania, while her father was from Massachusetts.

Brown's security system laid the groundwork for current security's two-way communication and surveillance functions. Peepholes, a camera, monitors, and a two-way microphone were all part of her original design. The final component was an alarm button that could be clicked to immediately call the authorities.

Marissa Mayer is Google's first female developer (she's technically employee number 20), having joined the company while it was still a startup in 1999. Mayer, who is now vice president of location and local services, is in charge of product management and engineering for Google Maps, Local Search, Google Earth, Street View, and Latitude, among other search products.

Her skills in user interface design and product vision have helped Google maintain its position as the world's most popular web, mobile, and search firm.

She is the youngest member of Google's executive operational committee, at 36 years old, and a role model for women pursuing jobs in technology.