Core Research Focus

The study focuses on four critical STEM-specific indicators and their outcomes:

1. Academic Performance

Comparing STEM vs. non-STEM Scores: Board exam data (CBSE and state boards, 2019–2024) was analyzed to compare student performance in STEM subjects versus non-STEM subjects. Typically, subjects like Mathematics show lower pass rates and higher failure rates than humanities or languages. For instance, mathematics in Class 12 has a ~15% failure rate (second only to economics) whereas subjects like Hindi see minimal failures. This highlights the relative difficulty of STEM curricula and the need for better support in these areas.

Impact of Hands-On STEM Labs: The study examined how experiential learning (science labs, project-based activities) affects term-end grades. Research consistently shows that active, hands-on learning boosts understanding and test performance. A meta-analysis of 158 studies found that shifting from traditional lecturing to active learning in STEM courses improved exam performance by an average of 0.47 standard deviations. In practical terms, this can raise average grades by half a letter and significantly reduce failure rates. The EIF study quantifies this impact in partner schools by calculating effect sizes for STEM lab interventions on exam scores, demonstrating clear academic benefits to interactive science and math education.

2. Pipeline Development

STEM Course Enrollment Spikes Post-Intervention: To gauge how school interventions translate to higher education, the study tracked the number of students pursuing STEM in college or professional courses. In schools with strengthened STEM programs, more graduates aspired to competitive STEM entrance exams (like engineering JEE or medical NEET) and succeeded. For example, in Delhi government schools, the number of students qualifying NEET rose from 569 in 2020 to 1,414 in 2024—a 2.5× increase. One STEM-focused school even saw a 95% NEET success rate (243 out of 255 students).

School STEM Activities & Tertiary STEM Majors: The study explores correlations between exposure to STEM activities in school and enrollment in STEM majors at the tertiary level. National data supports this trend: total enrollment in STEM higher education reached 9.85 million in 2021–22, up from 9.47 million in 2020–21. STEM fields now make up over a quarter of undergraduate enrollments. While many factors influence career choices, EIF’s tracking suggests that students engaged in STEM clubs, competitions, and coursework are more likely to pursue STEM degrees.

3. Career Awareness

Pre/Post Surveys on STEM Careers: EIF surveyed 8,200 students across cities before and after STEM interventions. Familiarity with STEM career options and interest in pursuing them increased significantly. By the end of EIF’s programs, both girls’ and boys’ awareness rose markedly. A 2021 survey showed 85% of boys but only 57% of girls in India wanted a STEM career—this gap narrowed through EIF's work.

Apprenticeship Uptake in STEM Fields: The study examined enrollment in vocational programs such as those by NSDC. Emphasis on practical STEM in school increased student enrollment in fields like coding, electronics, and healthcare tech after graduation—improving direct workforce readiness.

4. Interdisciplinary Transfer

Real-World Problem Solving: The study highlights students applying STEM knowledge to local challenges. From smart irrigation in Andhra Pradesh to low-cost waste solutions in Rajasthan, these examples show how STEM enables civic innovation. EIF documents these cases to demonstrate real-world transfer of skills and learning impact.

Evidence Matrix

• Academic Score Improvements: Based on National Achievement Survey (NAS) results (2017 vs 2021), the study shows state-wise gains in science and math. A heatmap of NAS 2021 highlights progress and priority areas.
• Gender Gaps Over Time: Using UDISE+ data (2015–2023), trends in gender parity are analyzed. An animated graph shows progress in girls' participation, though challenges remain—women make up only ~28% of the STEM workforce.
• CSR Program ROI: A Deloitte Impact Report supports analysis of cost-effectiveness. An infographic maps ROI per ₹1 lakh invested in STEM education, guiding funders toward high-impact strategies.

Peer-Reviewed Anchors

• Hattie’s Meta-Analysis: Conceptual change science programs have large effect sizes (~1.16), validating EIF’s hands-on, inquiry-based approach.
• OECD PISA Insights: Emphasis on real-world skills in countries excelling in STEM aligns with EIF's framework for holistic education.
• ASER Data: Rural-urban STEM gaps remain. Only ~57% of schools have computers and ~54% internet access. EIF argues for targeted rural investment.

Unique Deliverables

• Policy Dashboard: Interactive tool for policymakers to evaluate STEM spending and outcomes by state.
• Career Pathway Maps: Visuals linking school STEM activities to 50+ tech careers, including skills, subjects, and degrees required.
• Teacher Toolkit: NEP 2020-aligned lesson plans, experiments, and diagnostics to help educators implement effective STEM strategies.

Methodology Enhancements

• Participatory Learning Diagnostics (PLD): Real-time assessments for peer/self-evaluation, helping teachers identify concept gaps and promote reflective learning.
• Structural Equation Modeling (SEM): Advanced analysis that isolates STEM’s direct effect on academic and career outcomes, controlling for socio-economic variables.

Audience-Specific Versions

• Policymakers: 15-page policy brief with state snapshots, budget pointers, and policy alignment.
• CSR Teams: ROI Calculator and Impact Report to track investment outcomes and encourage future funding.
• Schools: A STEM Readiness Quiz identifying gaps in foundational knowledge and career exposure.

Conclusion

“Measuring What Matters” shows how comprehensive STEM education—from labs to career awareness—has measurable outcomes: better grades, more college enrollments, increased employability, and civic innovation. EIF’s data-backed tools (dashboards, toolkits, and diagnostics) ensure that every stakeholder can take action. Aligning with NEP 2020, the study confirms that building a future-ready workforce starts with quality STEM education.