STEMS² integrates science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with the social sciences and sense of place (S²). At the heart of STEMS² is a network of individuals and community partners who seek to foster student engagement and achievement via real-world application of interdisciplinary content knowledge that supports the social emotional development required for community and civic engagement in addition to promoting skills related to college and career readiness.
![stems2 diagram](https://coe.hawaii.edu/stems2/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2018/11/stems2-diagram_v4.png)
Learn more about the origins and journey of STEMS².
![stems classroom](https://coe.hawaii.edu/stems2/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/05/STEMSclass3-1600x500.jpg)
![stems classroom](https://coe.hawaii.edu/stems2/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/05/STEMSclass3-1600x500.jpg)
An Educational Movement
![STEMS2 Components Diagram](https://coe.hawaii.edu/stems2/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2018/11/Artboard-4stems2-diagram.png)
STEMS² is a place and culture-based construct that is composed of theory, pedagogy and a growing network.
Research
STEMS² theory is an ever growing body of research grounded in four major bodies of literature: 1) STEM education, 2) cultural-based and multicultural education, 3) sense of place and 4) place-based education, and indigenous education.
Pedagogy
STEMS² experience is grounded in the Hawaiian proverbs of Ma ka hana ‘ike – through doing one learns and A’o – that teaching and learning is a reciprocal relationship in which one is both a learner and a teacher at all times.
Network
The STEMS² network is made up of partners from around the world who share a passion for building integrated educational spaces that connect community, culture and place.
Participant Perspectives on STEMS²
STEMS² participants describe STEMS²
Community partner Herb Lee describes who STEMS² is for