Competency-Based Curriculum As A Strategy For STEM Education In The 21st Century

Abstract

The current educational system is governed by a common curriculum that is adapted to the times, spaces, cultures, and societies that have been defined over time. The main objective of this work is to analyze the different changes that the curriculum has undergone throughout the different educational laws in Spain, to subsequently analyze the curriculum by competencies as a promoter of STEM education in the schools of the 21st century. This study responds to a qualitative research model, which analyzes the situation of Spanish curriculum design and development in the Organic Law 2/2006 on Education (LOE), Organic Law 8/2013, of December 9, for the improvement of educational quality (LOMCE), and Organic Law 3/2020, which amends the Organic Law 2/2006 on Education (LOMLOE), educational laws in the Spanish context through a comparative study, to establish the evolution of curriculum policy and how the curriculum by competencies favors STEM education in schools. Competency-based education aims to achieve a comprehensive education for all students throughout all educational stages and from all areas of knowledge, promoting equity and ensuring that no student is left behind. This curriculum promotes mathematical competence and Science and Technology (STEM), providing students with an understanding of the world using the scientific method, mathematical and technological thinking, and representation, in addition to transforming the environment in a committed, responsible, and sustainable way. Among the challenges that the Organic Law 2/2006 on Education (LOMLOE) aims to address, we can see the improvement of the competence level of all students to increase STEM vocations, especially among girls. The new curriculum aims to focus more on competencies and less on memorization by integrating the STEM approach for the transformation of the environment in a responsible, sustainable, and sustained manner.  Incorporating a competency-based curriculum in schools can be a transformative approach to education, offering numerous benefits for both students and the education system. However, successful implementation requires careful planning, teacher training, and ongoing assessment and improvement.