Published August 3, 2024 | Version v1
Journal article Open

OBSTACLES TO EFFECTIVE STEM EDUCATION IN GEORGIAN UNIVERSITIES"

Authors/Creators

  • 1. ROR icon Grigol Robakidze University
  • 2. East European University

Description

This paper explores the challenges of implementing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education in higher education institutions in Georgia. The study employs a quantitative research method, surveying academic staff and undergraduate students to identify key issues hindering the effective development of 
STEM programs. The findings reveal several significant challenges, including insufficient funding for STEM programs and infrastructure, limited access to advanced technologies and laboratory facilities, a shortage of qualified STEM instructors, and difficulties in integrating interdisciplinary STEM concepts into curricula. The results also 
indicate that while gender inequality is perceived as a relatively less critical issue, there is still a need for further efforts to overcome gender stereotypes and encourage girls and women to fully engage in STEM educa tion and careers. Additionally, the study highlights varying levels of interest among students towards different STEM fields, 
with computer science, mathematics, biology, and medical sciences being the most popular. The paper concludes by emphasizing the necessity of comprehensive institutional efforts, including adequate financial support, infrastructure improvement, faculty development, curriculum modernization, and the strengthening of interdisciplinary and practical components to enhance the quality and competitiveness of STEM education in Georgian universities.

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References

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