STEM EDUCATION AS A BRIDGE FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO UNIVERSITY: IMPLICATIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND CONSERVATION

STEM education serves as a vital bridge between high school and university, particularly in preparing students for environmental science and conservation studies.By integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, STEM equips students with critical skills to address complex environmental challenges.This study explores the effectiveness of STEM programs in fostering environmental awareness, practical application, and academic preparedness among high school and university students.Through a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and interviews with 250 participants, findings indicate that STEM education enhances ecological literacy, motivates students toward conservation careers, and facilitates a smoother transition to higher education.However, gaps in advanced analytical skills highlight the need for improved high school curricula to better align with university demands.The study underscores the importance of hands-on, interdisciplinary STEM activities in cultivating environmentally conscious students ready for environmental science programs and sustainable.