A Guide to STEM Education in the UAE

Preparing Students for the Future: A Guide to STEM Education in the UAE

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics, which are collectively known as STEM, are subjects that excite and fascinate many students.

The history of STEM education first originated from the Soviet Union launching Sputnik, the first artificial satellite in 1957. This event sparked fears that the United States was falling behind in science and engineering. The US government and educational institutions responded by promoting the teaching of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics more vigorously.

Presently, STEM education continues to be an integral part of different learning programmes worldwide.

STEM schools in Dubai in particular focus on helping students develop the essential skills in this discipline. These schools aim to provide students with a good foundation to succeed academically and beyond.

What is STEM Education?

STEM education aims to educate students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. It combines the four subjects using an interdisciplinary and applied approach to ensure children can use and hone their skills in the real world. 

Schools offering the STEM curriculum equip students with the skills to effectively apply accurate information and insights across scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical fields. Through this approach, students can explore diverse content and projects, helping them obtain a better understanding of these areas.

Additionally, STEM education aims to teach students methods for implementing the best practices for each discipline, enabling them to improve their proficiency in these four areas.

STEM education also focuses on helping students improve their creativity and critical thinking skills. As a result, they can come up with innovative ideas that contribute to advancements in this field.

What is the Importance of STEM Education for Children?

Many industries are dependent on the STEM fields, which means numerous jobs related to these areas are accessible now and even more will be available in the future.

Children receiving STEM education in the UAE can obtain the skills and experiences they need to be employable. They also improve their chances of having a thriving career in a STEM-related field.

Additionally, technology continuously changes how students learn and connect with others. A STEM programme provides children the skills they need to succeed in school and adapt to the constantly evolving world. 

Why Should STEM Be Introduced to Children at an Early Age?

Introducing children to STEM at an early age can boost their interest and ability in this field. This can foster their curiosity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, laying a solid foundation for lifelong learning.

Young students can also develop a deeper understanding of the world, igniting a passion for discovery when they engage in interesting hands-on activities and experiments. Additionally, STEM programmes nurture creativity and innovation, preparing children to adapt to a rapidly changing technological landscape with ease.

What Makes GEMS Schools a Smart Choice for STEM Education?

Choosing the right school is essential in ensuring children get the most out of their STEM learning. At GEMS Education, we offer several outstanding schools in Dubai and across the UAE that provide excellent STEM programmes.

These schools stand out in terms of STEM education due to the following reasons:

1. Innovative Curriculum

Many GEMS schools have comprehensive STEM curricula that align with international standards.

For instance, STEM is incorporated into the curriculum of GEMS Metropole School, Motor City from infant to senior school. Through classroom learning, hands-on projects, practical applications, and real-world challenges, students gain a better understanding of STEM concepts and the relevant skills.

Below is an overview of what students learn in each STEM area:

Science

Students develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding of biology, chemistry and physics.

Primary school students are taught to understand the world they are living in through practical and exploratory science lessons. Prep school learners broaden their knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics and use their learning to explain events, predict things, and analyse causes.

Students in senior school continue to deepen their scientific knowledge and understanding of the ideas they acquire in the earlier stages. They will also learn more about the essential aspects of the methods, processes and uses of science.

Technology

In this area, students learn about the different principles of information and communications technology (ICT). They explore the applications of digital systems in everyday life and acquire the skills they need to prepare for their future careers.

Young learners are given age-appropriate activities to learn how to use technology to solve problems and obtain sought-after results. These activities include using digital devices to take photos and command robots.

Junior and senior school students have access to more platforms, topics and media to learn more about ICT. Their activities include:

• Block coding
• Multimedia content creation and editing
• Building robotics and assigning associated coding
• HTML Design and creation
• App creation

Engineering

Under this discipline, students are given various opportunities to apply their scientific and mathematical skills to solve problems, create new technologies, and enhance processes. They also use their understanding of ICT to design, produce, and test new systems and products, and bring their ideas to life.

With this background in engineering, students are in a better position to pursue popular fields and types of engineering, such as:

• Mechanical 
• Electrical 
• Computer 
• Civil
• Aerospace and defence
• Agriculture

Mathematics

We focus on helping our students develop various mathematical and problem-solving skills. Our curriculum enables learners to study topics in depth and apply them to real-life scenarios, ensuring they enjoy learning about maths.

Students from Years 1 to 6 learn the following mathematical concepts:

• Place value
• Addition
• Subtraction
• Multiplication
• Division
• Fractions
• Geometry
• Measurement
• Percentage

Students in Years 7 and 8 hone the skills they learned through a mastery curriculum. Their units of study include:

• Algebraic thinking
• Place value and proportion
• Reasoning with numbers
• Proportional reasoning
• Reasoning with data

Students in Years 9, 10, 11, 12, and 13 learn higher levels of maths to prepare for their secondary school exams. These subjects or topics include:

• Trigonometry
• Quadratic equations
• Vectors
• Calculus
• Graphs and their transformations
• Mechanics

1. Experienced Faculty

As one of the leading providers of STEM programmes in schools, GEMS boasts highly qualified and experienced educators who specialise in the four fields. We also stay constantly up-to-date with the current trends in this discipline so our students always receive the latest information

The teachers’ expertise fosters a stimulating learning environment that can nurture the students' passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

1. State-of-the-Art Facilities

GEMS schools have well-equipped laboratories and facilities to provide students with experiential learning. Children also have access to the latest technologies and resources to encourage them to explore and experiment. This allows them to keep up with the latest trends and improve their problem-solving and analytical skills.

For instance, GEMS International School Al Khail has an onsite flight simulator. This cutting-edge tool enables students to discover and experience the world of aviation in a safe, immersive and fun way.

1. Variety of STEM Extracurricular Activities

As leading providers of STEM education in the UAE, GEMS schools offer an array of extracurricular programmes and clubs focused on the four disciplines. GEMS World Academy – Abu Dhabi, in particular, offers students several STEM-based after-school activities, such as robotics, Lego robotics club and Book Creator digital story writing.

These activities foster a holistic approach to STEM education, allowing students to pursue their specific interests beyond the classroom.

1. Industry Partnerships

GEMS Education works with leading local industries and organisations to provide students with exposure to real-world applications of STEM. We do this by offering different opportunities, such as internships, workshops, and lectures, to help students gain valuable insights into their potential career paths.

Additionally, GEMS schools organise regular field trips to their partner companies supporting STEM learning. These activities allow students to visit these places, broaden their knowledge and gain hands-on experience with the latest technologies and scientific research.

Through field trips, students can also interact with scientists and professionals in the four disciplines of STEM. These opportunities enable them to learn first-hand from experienced industry experts and see the possibilities of their future careers

1. Accreditations and Recognitions

Many GEMS schools have earned accreditations and recognitions from reputable organisations like Trusity, a leading Edtech in the UAE, and Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA).

Our students have also won various awards from the STEM Olympiad and Global Annual STEM Best Practice Summit and Awards. These accolades validate our commitment to delivering high-quality STEM education.

Overall, GEMS schools offer a well-rounded, innovative, and globally recognised STEM education that empowers students with essential knowledge, skills, and mindset. Our programmes can help young children thrive in the constantly evolving world of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Explore our different schools and STEM programmes here.