This course places STEM education in its historical and global context and asks how we should interpret the recent popularity of the STEM construct in Canada. Students will examine the sociopolitical context within which the STEM education agenda has arisen and is being pursued. The course will promote critical analysis of STEM as an entity and in its application to educational contexts.

The course readings should not be viewed as definitive or exemplary readings on the subject, rather they have been selected to support and promote critical engagement with STEM education. The readings focus on the United States of America and Australia as key locations of influence where Canadian STEM education is concerned but students will have opportunities to explore policies and practices in other global locations.

The central question for the course is: What are the origins and sociopolitical contexts for STEM education around the world, and what are their implications for the future directions of STEM education in Canada?