This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
It is not often that we have the opportunity to read a column based on reason, integrity and logic. Don Gale has written such a column. ("STEM education is good, but not good enough," Tribune, May 10.)
As Gale states, the problem with science, technology, engineering and math education (STEM) is that it does not deal with the more important aspects of learning: understanding the wonders of nature, the love of learning and the appreciation of human complexities.
Yes, it is important that students learn the STEM subjects. However, such learning is of little value unless it is encased in a value system. Learning, to be appropriate, should be centered on the study of ethics, the need for cooperation, the understanding of the human condition and, especially, love for each other.
STEM narrows student creativity, vision and the basis for a meaningful life
Janet Coleman Thomas
Salt Lake City