SAE International, GM launch STEM curriculum program

SAE International, a global organization focused on advancing mobility knowledge and solutions, and General Motors (GM) recently launched a STEM curriculum program focused on information technology (IT).

The program, Programming Each Other, is part of SAE International’s A World In Motion program that focuses on STEM skills for students in pre-K through grade 8.

The program doesn’t require access to computers and instead develops computational thinking skills with increasingly complex tasks. Students will learn about setbacks inherent to programming, variables and error handling, conditional statements, loops, and other programming concepts.

Lessons in the program include optional tech extensions and supporting videos, and opportunities for students to present their findings in a collaborative environment.

“SAE International and GM saw an opportunity to make a difference in schools—and the future workforce pipeline—across the nation, particularly in areas without computer labs or computers in students’ homes,” Chris Ciuca, SAE International vice president of programs, said. “Computing occupations make up 58 percent of all projected new jobs in STEM fields, and computer science is one of the highest-paid bachelor’s degrees. Yet not many schools teach computer science, let alone require computer science credits for high school graduation.”

The program is available for elementary schools and can be adapted for at-home learning.