What is polytechnic? How to use in English

The word "polytechnic" originated in the early 19th century in Europe, as a response to the need for education in practical skills beyond the theoretical and academic education offered in traditional universities. The term "polytechnic" was coined by the French education minister Joseph Fourier, who envisioned institutions that would provide a well-rounded education in both theoretical and practical sciences, technology, and applied arts. The first polytechnic school was established in Paris in 1794, known as École centrale des arts et manufactures, and served as a model for similar institutions that spread throughout Europe and beyond. In the UK, the term "polytechnic" referred to institutions that provided practical education in technical and professional fields leading to diploma and degree-level qualifications, rather than the more academic and theoretical education offered by traditional universities. The term "polytechnic" was adopted by many of these institutions in the 19th and 20th centuries, as they sought to distance themselves from the more exclusive and elite image of the traditional universities. Today, the term "polytechnic" continues to be used to describe a range of institutions that provide practical, applied, and professional education, often in science, engineering, technology, and mathematics (STEM) fields.