Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem) Education: A Catalyst for Entrepreneurship and Economic Growth in Nigeria (Published)
Equipping learners with the 21st century skills is the current pursuit of nations of the world wishing to maintain global leadership and cutting-edge economic competitiveness. These nations now see Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education as an option for equipping their up-coming generations with problem solving skills and potentials for becoming innovators and entrepreneurs of tomorrow. This paper explains the concept of Nigerian economic recession and its remote causes. It also explains the STEM education as a meta-discipline which is taught as an integrated subject abroad but is yet to take root in Nigeria. The author presents STEM education as the foundation for innovation, entrepreneurship and work place skill required to boost the economy of Nigeria so as to diversify her economy from oil dependence and combat youth unemployment. It concludes with suggestions of what Nigeria ought to do at this time to reposition STEM education to achieve economic recovery.
Keywords: Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Mathematics Education, Science, Technology, economic growth
A Case Study on Effective Approaches for Implementing Constructivist Teaching Strategies into a Mathematics Classroom (Published)
This research study explored the effect of employing constructivist teaching strategies in a mathematics classroom using a single case study design. The resulting analysis and interpretation provided a description of major themes that developed regarding the implementation of a constructivist teaching strategy in a ‘traditionally’ taught mathematics classroom. Based on the findings, two primary categories emerged with supporting elements that were critical components of each category. These two primary categories represent possible determining factors in effectively facilitating constructivist learning environments. The findings could provide valuable information to an educational learning community seeking to introduce constructivist teaching strategies to promote student-driven and student-centered learning environments in their schools. It may also provide insight into how this theoretical/philosophical model of learning can be transferred into practice.
Keywords: Constructivist Pedagogy, Mathematics Education, Teacher Development