In the past few years, the integration of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) has gained momentum in education in the United States (U.S.). This is partly because of the increased emphasis on it by the National Science Foundation (NSF), federal funding of legislation for STEM, and some states and localities changing their technology education offerings to be inclusive of the “T” and “E” in STEM by teaching “Technology and Engineering.” Another contributing factor has been the evolution and implementation of nationally-developed content standards in almost all of the subject matter areas in schools. Many states and localities have, as a result, developed their own standards. To further complement this effort, the International Technology Education Association (ITEA) changed its name in March 2010 to the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA).
As with any new educational venture, some people consider STEM as an opportunity while others view it as having many problems. This paper will discuss the evolution of STEM and present the current level of implementation in the U.S.