Valchev: We are transitioning to STEM education with an emphasis on the physical environment and a change in methods

All teachers are currently undergoing training to teach in a STEM environment, said the outgoing Minister of Education and Science, Krasimir Valchev. He is in Blagoevgrad for the opening of a STEM center in a school in the city.

The STEM environment is primarily physical, with modern equipment, technical resources, and modern classrooms. But STEM learning also implies changed teaching methods, in which students are more active, learning through trials and experiments, Valchev said and added that traditional teaching methods are becoming increasingly unsuitable. We are in an increasingly difficult competition for the students' attention, he also said. According to him, STEM centers increase motivation for learning.

The outgoing minister pointed out that students have problems with mathematics and natural sciences. And our low results on PISA are largely due to them, Valchev said.

He explained that STEM centers are not the only condition to improve results and there must be a change in curricula and assessment.

We took a step back from the integrated exam after seventh grade (a mathematics exam that should also include natural sciences). Tasks with elements of natural sciences remain after 10th grade, Valchev said.

It is most important for students to know the Bulgarian language. We have quite a few of those who have insufficient skills at the entrance to first grade, which then deepen. That's why we proposed the so-called language integration, which meets consensus among the parliamentary groups, he explained.

Valchev also pointed out that foreign languages ​​are currently at the top of the list for study. Our students are motivated to study them and are doing well, unlike mathematics and natural sciences, he said.