Environmental Science the interdisciplinary STEM

Authors: Gwendelyn Geidel William E Winner

Publish Date: 2015/10/27

Volume: 6, Issue: 2, Pages: 336-343

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Abstract

The recognition of Environmental Science ES academic programs as science technology engineering and mathematics STEM is important to the role ES will play in scholarship and in socioeconomic development The National Science Foundation other federal agencies and many academic leaders recognize ES as a STEM discipline However some state agencies and academic colleagues do not This article builds the case that ES is a STEM discipline is a “rigorous science” and provides indepth treatments of science disciplines In general ES qualifies as STEM education for four reasons ES is grounded in the scientific method and the process of discovery ES is empirical and predictive ES is rigorous in its provision of specific skills for analytical analysis and ES provides students with critical thinking skills We develop viewpoints that the interdisciplinary field of ES is a mature science that appeals to students and prepares them for meaningful careers Recognition and classification of ES as a STEM discipline provides a crucial link for their funding provides career opportunities and research initiatives for students and faculty members and gives those from ES academic programs standing in the sciencebased discussions for advancing sustainability in a rapidly changing world

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