How to Overcome Barriers and Misconceptions of STEM Education in the United States

The United States is considered to be the leader of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. Currently, American students’ performance and enthusiasm in STEM education are inadequate for the U.S. to maintain its leadership in STEM professions unless the government takes more action to motivate a new generation of U.S. students toward STEM careers. Despite coherent actions taken by the government and various institutions, the U.S. cannot ensure the production of a sufficient number of experts in STEM fields to meet its’ national and global needs. This paper starts with a deeper look at the basis of career choices by the U.S. students and the barriers and misconceptions about STEM education in the U.S.; and concludes with recommendations for how to overcome the barriers and misconceptions.