STEM pipeline
The STEM pipeline is a term used to describe the educational programs in the STEM fields, (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), The "pipeline" metaphor is based on the idea that having sufficient graduates requires both having sufficient input of students at the beginning of their studies, and retaining these students through completion of their academic program.[1] The STEM pipeline is a key component of workplace diversity and of workforce development that ensures sufficient qualified candidates are available to fill scientific and technical positions.
Description
This STEM pipeline concept is a useful tool for programs aiming at increasing the total number of graduates, and is especially important in efforts to increase the number of underrepresented minorities and women in STEM fields.[2] Using STEM methodology, educational policymakers can examine the quantity and retention of students at all stages of the K–12 educational process, and devise programs and interventions to improve educational processes and outcomes. STEM programs focus on increasing social and academic supports for students. STEM programs may also focus on bringing students together with professionals in their field, to provide mentoring, role models and learning opportunities in industry.[3]
Examples
Maintaining a healthy and diverse STEM pipeline has been a concern in several developed countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany.[4][5][6]
United States
In the United States, although efforts to increase the number of women and African Americans in STEM fields have been ongoing, as recently as 2010 the results have been evaluated as "poor".[7][8] In 2014, one report declared that "traditionally underrepresented groups remain underrepresented",[9] while another article commented, "You can go through your entire scholarly trajectory in computer science without seeing one face of color", where "of color" refers to African Americans.[10]
STEM pipeline programs in the US have been created at various levels. Examples include: the Technology Leadership Institute at the University of Pittsburgh at the college and university level,[11] the Nevada STEM pipeline at the state level [12] and the Broadening Participation in Computing Alliances at the national level.[13]
Public reactions
The STEM pipeline concept has been criticized as being an incomplete solution for the recruitment and retention of women in technical and scientific fields. A 2015 commentary in Inside Higher Ed suggested that the "leaky pipeline" metaphor may be viewed as pejorative towards individuals who leave the academic track for employment, or use their technical background as the basis for a career in a non-technical field.[14]
A 2015 commentary in Science observed that Margaret Thatcher and Angela Merkel could be considered two "leaks" in the pipeline.[15]
See also
References
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