How NextWaveSTEM connects STEM with SEL

Looking into our education systems, we understand the importance of quality education – not just in the material taught by teachers but also in the social environments in which we position students. Students learn so much more than math equations and history lessons in school. They learn how to interact with people, understand the different kinds of relationships, and how they function in relation to others. 

STEM education

When it comes to STEM education (science, technology, engineering, and math), we initially think about how it teaches independent skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving, along with learning technical information such as 3D printing design and coding. But in fact, STEM programs also grant valuable social spaces for students to interact and develop their interpersonal abilities in what is called social-environmental learning.

Social-emotional learning (SEL)

Social-emotional learning (SEL) consists of five critical components for children and teens to learn interactive behaviors within relationships and for themselves: 

• Self-awareness

• Self-management 

• Social awareness 

• Relationship skills

• Responsible decision-making 

Schools now prioritize teaching SEL skills explicitly and implicitly as they are crucial for student success on all fronts. Students need to have access to a safe space where they can learn these abilities while also tapping into their curiosity as they explore something new. 

NextWave STEM’s mission

NextWave STEM’s mission is to present these safe spaces for students to grow – not just academically but emotionally too. Our innovative curriculum and spaces allow children and teens to collaborate, solve problems and create an opportunity for them to make friends and have fun. SEL is just as vital to a child’s growth as academics, so why not give them a place where they can learn both?

With STEM industries thriving now more than ever, education for these careers has become progressively encouraged by schools nationwide. And while it’s important that kids start early to learn as much as they can about STEM fields, we can’t forget their need for SEL skill-building opportunities. 

No matter what age, students need room to grow and understand relationships. NextWave STEM provides those opportunities while exploring varied creative and technical paths that might spark life-long goals.