STEM TRAINING – A FORMULA OF SUCCESS

Abstract

Abstract. The information revolution, creation of the computers, the Internet and especially information and communication technologies have radically changed the opportunities and learning environment. The new educational paradigm and "Teaching learners to discover knowledge to solve problems". The problems in science and life are most often interdisciplinary, and schooling is conducted discipline by discipline. The article proposes a transition from subject-centric organization of the learning process (vertical organization, subject, after subject) to interdisciplinary organization (horizontal organization, problem-oriented). STEM training is proposed as the basis for this change. The origin of this training and the stages it goes through are considered. An analysis of its goals and advantages has been made. The difficulties of its implementation are also pointed out. Soft skills achieved through STEM training include problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, decision making, leadership, entrepreneurship, acceptance of failures and more. Regardless of the future career path chosen by these children, these skill sets have a long way to go to prepare them to be innovative. However, with the right curriculum, STEM subjects also provide children with opportunities to develop basic traits, including empathy, perseverance and cooperation. STEM adds quality to the educational program. An overview of STEM training in New Zealand, Australia, England, the United States, India, Finland, South Korea and France.The types of laboratories for building STEM environment in the educational institutions of Bulgaria are also considered.