The "A" in STEAM Education: Embracing Creativity in Technology

The past several years have brought to the forefront the need to include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects in our modern K-12 education model. I've recently noticed the addition of the "A" for arts, a brilliant move! Art is a vital component of our swiftly evolving world, it's not only relevant in designing almost anything, I would go so far as to say it's essential in shaping the future of our society while allowing us to understand our past. It helps us understand who we are as humans and shapes how we relate to one another.

Incorporating the arts into STEM education promotes a holistic approach to problem-solving. It brings empathy into the equation, allowing us to understand user needs, and create solutions that are not just functional but are also aesthetically pleasing. Growing up restoring old cars with my Dad (and taking anything else apart that I could), I was able to embrace the beauty of the mechanics and engineering that went in to them along with the visual design. He taught me how to use mechanic's tools, how to step down the various grits of sandpaper needed to prepare the body for final painting, and the movement and control of the spray flowing from the paint can (at age 12 I was only allowed to spray the primer). The same would hold true in working with my Mom in her business machine repair shop and in my work in aviation, the automotive industry, and construction.

There was an artistic element in the time spent in opticianry school as well. We needed to learn about biology, physical and geometric optics, along with some machinery and testing techniques. Ultimately, the end user is more inclined to choose their eyewear based on aesthetics over diopter values. I found this held true in my field work in the economically disparate region along the Dominican/Haitian border. People walked for miles for an eye exam, some without shoes, but they still cared about how they looked in their new (to them) glasses as much as being able to see.

I feel very lucky that my work throughout my career paths, and personal life, has allowed me to interact with people who embrace the beauty of the mechanics and physics of how things work, behind the walls and under the hood, along with the elegance of the finishes that make them aesthetically pleasing. When on an inspection with a technician, we often laugh when noting how owners don't typically appreciate all the components and how they interact with each other. A common phrase uttered is "not everyone can appreciate that", noting that most end-users get caught up in the details of the end product.

Artistic skills aren't just limited to visual attributes, I'd venture a guess in saying that a linguist can appreciate both the mechanics of a combination of words while embracing the origin and beauty of cultural differences and dialects. The same goes for software developers, educators, and really most anyone in any role. As a Team leader, I need to understand the basics of human interaction along with the technical aspects of the team member's roles. Leadership is as much an art as it is an acquired set of skills.

I could go on and on but will start wrapping up by saying that the brilliance of including arts in STEAM education is that it emphasizes the importance of the human experience in technological advancements. It encourages students (young and old) to develop technology with a human touch, prioritizing human or end-user experiences, accessibility, and inclusivity. This ensures that technology serves its intended purpose and enhances our quality of life and that of our communities as a whole.

To the person(s) who decided to include the "A" in STEAM - you are brilliant, and I appreciate this new (to me) inclusion.

How has STEM/STEAM learning presented itself in your life or the life of your children? I'd love to hear!

Photo Above: As a mechanic who enjoys artistic expression - this is my motorcycle, I upgraded some of the mechanical features (updated intake, catch can system, re-jetted carb, etc.) along with some aesthetics (repaint, removal of some cowling, etc.). I equally love the feel of a wrench and a paintbrush (or can) in my hands along with the frustrations and joy that comes with it. I am grateful to all who have embraced my curiosity, taught me a trick or two, but mostly allowed me to learn through my failures. -Thank you!

I was proud enough in my work I designed a logo and bought some decals. Not my best branding moment but we all learn in our own unique ways.

Who needs a fancy garage when you have a back yard and a few tools?

#STEAM #STEM #Mechanics #Arts #Design #GirlsWithTools #WomanMechanic #YouGotThis