Johnson underscores importance of STEAM

WESTERN BUREAU:

As the global educational sector moves towards inclusive and innovative learning, Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA) President Leighton Johnson is underscoring the importance of embracing the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) curriculum locally.

Johnson was speaking at the JTA’s 60th anniversary Education Conference at the Ocean Coral Spring in Trelawny on Tuesday morning, under the theme Full STEAM Ahead: Advancing Digital and Future Skills.

The JTA president said that the inclusion of the STEAM curriculum in schools across Jamaica is necessary to prepare students for advanced learning in the future.

“The theme of our conference underscores the critical importance of embracing the digital age and equipping our students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. As educators, we are tasked with preparing the next generation to navigate a landscape shaped by rapid technological advancements, global connectivity, and unprecedented opportunities,” Johnson said.

Earlier in February, the Jamaica Information Service reported that the necessary approvals had been obtained for the construction of the first STEAM school, with the designs expected to be completed in the new financial year.

It is reportedly being facilitated under Phase II of the Education System Transformation Programme, for which a sum of $300 million has been allocated in the 2024-2025 Estimates of Expenditure.

Approximately six STEAM schools are expected to be constructed across the island, with the first slated to be established in St Ann.

According to Johnson, the introduction of the STEAM curriculum is a welcomed move as it gives students access to an unlimited number of opportunities needed to thrive in a technology-driven world.

“In today’s interconnected and digital-centric society, proficiency in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) has never been more essential. These disciplines serve as the cornerstone of innovation, driving progress and shaping the future of industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing, from finance to entertainment,” Johnson said on Tuesday.

Along with the introduction of the STEAM curriculum, Johnson said that educators must also aim to encourage “critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and the adaptability necessary to thrive in a complex and interconnected world”.

Equal access to education

At the same time, the JTA president pointed out that all students enrolled in a local educational institution, regardless of their socio-economic background, must have access to “high-quality learning experiences”.

This, he believes, will also ensure that students are given equal access to educational opportunities.

“By harnessing the power of technology and innovation, we can bridge gaps, break down barriers, and unlock opportunities for learners of all ages and abilities. Together, we can harness the transformative power of education to shape a future where every individual has the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in a rapidly changing world,” Johnson charged.

While urging that the education ministry reviews how it disburses funds and resources to schools across the island, the JTA president also called for the introduction of additional technologies in the classroom.

Johnson said that these technologies will play important roles in how teachers carry out their duties. He pointed out that Jamaican teachers, who are exposed to these technologies overseas, are usually on top of the game.

“There must be an approach to outfit every school at all levels with interactive smart boards which have proven to enhance the teaching and learning process. I am confident that our teachers are innovative, creative, and well trained. Provide the resources and watch our teachers further transform education in our country. This is evident when they go into other jurisdictions and are celebrated as top teachers within school districts in a very short time,” said Johnson.

However, the JTA president noted that there is a need for additional collaborative relationships in the push for STEAM curriculum in schools.

He said that with financial assistance from corporate sponsors and alumni, the technology devices in schools can be properly maintained and kept up to date.

“We continue to urge corporate sponsors to partner with our educational intuitions to provide the mobile labs and other essential technological resources to ensure that our students receive the best possible educational experiences which are aligned to 21st century global standards,” Johnson said.

He continued, “I encourage the respective alumni to get more actively engaged in the acquisition of the necessary 21st century technological devices and equipment necessary to advance the educational pursuits of our students.

“We acknowledge the work being done by E-learning Jamaica to retool the existing e-learning labs with updated equipment. However, there is an urgent call to implement a maintenance plan to keep the labs functional,” said the JTA president.

rochelle.clayton@gleanerjm.com