Every child has the potential to do great things. But in a world where technology is always evolving and changing the future, a parent — and even a teacher — might wish for a “superpower” to be given to a child.
Amir Asor, CEO and founder of E2 Young Engineers and a featured speaker for the upcoming launch of the franchise in the Philippines, has an answer for that. He knows that there is power in engineering.
“Engineers have the skills to build anything out of scratch much like a superpower,” Asor shared. “Learning to code is one of the most important things you can do if you want to be prepared for the future.”
Knowledge and understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is essential to prepare kids in the rapidly changing world.
Education and entertainment
But there is an important question that a parent needs to ask: “How do I get my child to learn STEM?”Amor developed the concept of “edutainment” in 2008 when he started the E2 Young Engineers program. This method is a combination of education and entertainment that helps children grow their knowledge and understanding of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in a better and fun way.
“The most effective way to engage students and assist them to develop their learning skills and knowledge is by making learning fun and exciting,” Asor said. “Young Engineers gives kids the opportunity to learn and enjoy at the same time.”
There is no question that STEM education has a major role in the future, according to Asor. He believes that his program for E2 Young Engineers will have a good initiative for both students and teachers.
“STEM will help our future generations become innovative adults with exceptional skills in our increasingly technology-driven world,” he said.
For parents looking for a better way to teach their children about STEM, the edutainment program is a new approach that provides an engaging, hands-on learning experience. The program has been taking the lead in this approach, providing theoretical knowledge and practical implementation in STEM basics through the use of K’nex, Engino and LEGO bricks.
Theoretical knowledge and practical implementation in STEM basics can be taught in use of LEGO bricks.
STEM in education technology
According to Asor, exposing them to STEM is essential to prepare for the rapidly changing world.“One key component in STEM is integration,” Asor explained. “Instead of teaching disciplines in independent subjects, STEM offers well-rounded lessons that improve their skills in critical thinking, collaborating, innovating and problem-solving.”
Research from the World Economic Forum, according to the Oxford Business Group, has shown that the quality of mathematics and science education in the Philippines ranks among the lowest regionally, resulting in relatively low numbers of STEM graduates.
But STEM education in the Philippines is slowly gaining momentum as the government introduced its K to 12 program in 2016. It integrated STEM career tracks for students to pursue jobs in related fields and industries.
Teachers are also finding creative ways in helping kids learn STEM. Teaching methods such as mobile learning where students primarily use electronic devices or gamification where they use video game elements are enhancing the learning experience in a dynamic and accessible way.
“Parents, as well as educators, have an important role in giving our young learners that ability to adapt in a world where technology continues to evolve and change how we live our lives,” Asor said. “Children need to gather the correct tools in order to process the pieces to analyze and execute to reach the final concept.”
Students who have participated in the Young Engineers program have shown marked improvement in the field of STEM because of the comprehensive learning experience. Through this, parents will understand that their kids can uncover their potential with the power of STEM.
