The provincial government announced today that the new science and technology curriculum for Grades 1 to 8, along with plans to de-stream the Grade 9 science course. The new courses will “place an emphasis on critical life and job skills, including the fast-growing skilled trades.”
The new curriculum will be implemented in September of 2022 and it includes coding instruction as early as Grade 1. It also focuses on STEM and how it connects to everyday life, lessons about robotics and AI, education about the skilled trades and learning related to food literacy. Climate change and the importance of Indigenous knowledge will also be touched upon in the new curriculum.
“Ontario has transformed the curriculum to now emphasize STEM education across all grades, embedding life and job skills that will support the next generation of scientists, innovators and entrepreneurs,” said Minister of Education Stephen Lecce in a statement.
“From finding new cures for cancer, to space robotics that reach new planets, and the development of artificial intelligence and technologies that are changing the economy, Ontario’s new science and technology curriculum is focused on giving young people the skills to think critically, dream boldly and chart new pathways forward for our economy.”
The curriculum was last updated in 2007. This was before many technological advancements. The province’s announcement has been praised by many who say it is about time for education to reflect on the real world and are celebrating this win for Ontario students.
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