The traditional definition of literacy is often stated as "the ability to read, write, listen and speak." Functional literacy is defined as the practical level of these abilities that allow for people to function effectively in society.  But as our world changes, the definition of literacy has broadened beyond these abilities. A high demand for STEM and STEM related occupations means that students must be STEM-literate...

 

But what does that mean?

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Well...there is not an agreed upon definition. But the high demand for STEM careers and the low representation of Black and LatinX people in those careers remain the same so we do not have time for people to figure this out.

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So we are working to define this for ourselves.

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How?

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Glad you asked.