Studies show American classrooms are lacking valuable STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), and beginning today, the College of Charleston is hosting hundreds of math and science teachers for The Association for Science Teacher Education international conference. Conference events will be held at the Francis Marion Hotel through Saturday, January 12, 2013.

Associate Professor William Veal and Department of Teacher Education Chair Meta Van Sickle are co-chairs for the conference, of which the 2013 theme is “Science Education Through a Historical and Cultural Lens.” Associate Professor Mutindi Ndunda and the School of Education, Health and Human Performance’s Courtney Howard are assistant chairs.

“Given the tremendous spotlight being put on STEM education, we’re fortunate to have the conference in Charleston,” says Van Sickle. Estimates show the U.S. will have more than 1.2 million unfilled jobs in science, technology, engineering, and math by 2018. Advocates of STEM education say students prepared in STEM-related disciplines enjoy higher starting salaries and lower unemployment rates and argue that STEM education plays a critical role in helping the United States remain the economic and technological leader of the global marketplace.

The Graduate School of the College of Charleston offers a Master of Education in Science and Math for Teachers. Students learn to use a hands-on approach to explore the intricate relationships between the sciences and mathematics. Veal is the director of the program.

The Association of Science Teacher Education is an international, non-profit professional organization committed to promoting excellence in science teacher education world-wide through scholarship and innovation. The organization’s 800+ membership includes science teacher educators, scientists, science coordinators and supervisors, and informal science educators who prepare and provide professional development for teachers of science at all grade levels.

Visit http://theaste.org/meetings/2013conference for complete conference details.