Which of the following emphasizes the importance of problem-solving in education?

Integrated STEM education emphasizes the importance of problem-solving in education by fostering an interdisciplinary approach that combines science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This educational model encourages students to engage in real-world challenges, apply critical thinking skills, and work collaboratively on complex, hands-on projects. By integrating these subjects, students learn to identify problems, devise innovative solutions, and understand the relevance of their learning in everyday contexts.

In contrast, traditional rote learning often focuses on memorization and the retention of facts without encouraging deeper analytical thinking. Lecture-heavy formats can limit student interaction and practical application of knowledge, which diminishes opportunities for problem-solving. Lastly, standardized test preparation primarily emphasizes answering specific questions to perform well on exams, which does not necessarily nurture the broader skill set needed for effective problem-solving in real-world scenarios. Therefore, the emphasis of integrated STEM education on collaborative and critical problem-solving sets it apart as the best approach in this context.