Explore the opportunities and challenges of STEM education in this 52-minute Dean's Lecture Series talk from the University of Melbourne. Delve into the various interpretations of STEM education, its potential impact on student interest and achievement, and the implementation challenges faced by schools and teachers. Learn about the longitudinal research needed to determine the effects of STEM education on students, teachers, and schools. Gain insights from Professor Jan van Driel, a world-leading scholar in science education, as he discusses misconceptions, the importance of critical thinking, and the role of teachers in STEM education. Examine the concept of interdisciplinarity, the essence of research, and potential solutions to persistent problems in STEM education. Discover how STEM education can make a difference and what elements are missing in current approaches.