Articles tagged with Science Teaching
A new study from Oregon State University found that STEM faculty at large research universities are creating their own evaluation systems, using data to improve instruction. Faculty in these fields are gathering and responding to data, often using their own systems, to advance their teaching beyond required evaluations.
The Syracuse University-Cal State Fullerton partnership aims to recruit and expand the number of underrepresented students in gravitational-wave astronomy. The five-year project, funded by the National Science Foundation, will provide multiple three-year fellowships for CSUF students to transfer into Syracuse's Ph.D. program in physics.
Researchers found that chimpanzees choose to cooperate five times more frequently than compete, using various strategies to overcome competition. The study suggests shared roots of human cooperation with other primates and provides insight into human evolution.
CityLab will partner with Fordham University and local squash organizations to provide engaging STEM experiences for students from diverse backgrounds. The program aims to develop a national model for informal precollege biomedical science education, inspiring careers in STEM fields.
Aurora Pribram-Jones, a researcher at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and postdoctoral fellow at UC Berkeley, has been awarded the Howes Scholar prize. She was recognized for her outstanding scientific achievements and leadership in advancing solid-state hydrogen storage through interdisciplinary research.
The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute is creating a free online database of over 100 scientifically accurate 3D biomedical animations. This project, led by Dr Drew Berry, aims to provide valuable teaching and learning resources for schools and universities teaching biomedical science.
A new analysis of over a century of literature reveals the life and journey of the word however, with common misuse as a synonym for but. Dr Andrew Hamilton's study shows that using however incorrectly has risen since World War II, often misusing it as a conjunction.
A team of researchers and students at UCR developed a modular system of 3D-printed blocks to enable quick and easy creation of chemical and biological research instruments. The Multifluidic Evolutionary Components (MECs) can be used in various settings, including university labs, schools, and hospitals.
A UBC study suggests that teacher burnout and student stress are linked, with elevated cortisol levels found in students in classrooms where teachers experience more emotional exhaustion. This connection highlights the need for adequate resources and support for teachers to prevent a cyclical problem of stress contagion in classrooms.
A study explores how high-tech employees learn essential skills like problem-solving, communication, and self-regulated learning for career success. Researchers will interview and survey employers, employees, and educators across four regions to understand the role of workforce development in STEM industries.
Carl Wieman, a Nobel laureate in Physics, has received the 2016 Gutenberg Teaching Award for his exceptional contributions to the dissemination of knowledge and quality of academic teaching. The award recognizes his efforts to improve undergraduate science education through innovative approaches and tools.
Most Arizona biology instructors prioritize teaching facts over helping students accept evolution, according to a new ASU study. The research found that many professors perceive barriers to discussing the topic and often stick to neutral facts, despite recognizing that science can coexist with religious beliefs.
A newly discovered Australian plant species has been named Solanum ossicruentum, based on characteristics of its unripened and mature fruits. The name was chosen from essay submissions by a class of US 7th graders who participated in the research project.
Katya Ravid, a Boston University professor, has been awarded a Fulbright Scholar Award to conduct innovative interdisciplinary research in hematopoiesis and megakaryocte/platelet biomedical research in France. She will serve as an advisor to ongoing institutional programs at the University of Strasbourg and INSERM.
WeBWorK, created by Michael Gage and Arnold Pizer, has made an invaluable contribution to teaching mathematics through its open-source online homework system. The system provides immediate feedback to students and is used in mathematics classes across the country, covering courses from college algebra to linear algebra.
Todd Pagano, RIT's founding director of the Laboratory Science Technology program, has been named an outstanding undergraduate science educator. His American Chemical Society-approved program prepares deaf and hard-of-hearing students for careers in chemistry, with a success rate exceeding that of hearing peers.
A study of nearly 500 scientists found that honesty and curiosity are the core values of exemplary researchers, with 94% agreeing they can be learned through education. The study's findings highlight the importance of instilling desirable traits in the next generation of scientists.
A study of US science teachers found that 30% emphasize natural causes for global warming, while 12% don't mention human causes. The authors propose addressing the root causes of resistance to science through science communication research.
A two-year project integrates computing with elementary school mathematics, developing research-based learning trajectories for each grade level. The Track 1 Exploratory Integration Project aims to democratize access to computer science education and promote diversity in the U.S. technology workforce.
Bill Wood has been awarded the Elizabeth W. Jones Award for Excellence in Education for his sustained impact on genetics education, including innovative pedagogical approaches and high-quality undergraduate science education. The award recognizes his leadership in developing evidence-based reflective teaching and active learning.
A study by ETH Zurich researchers found that teachers with less experience discriminate against female students in physics exams, leading to poorer grades. The findings highlight the importance of teacher training and objective grading criteria to combat biases and stereotypes.
A new study from NIMBioS sheds light on strategies used by creationists to influence evolution teaching in public schools. Antievolution bills show evidence of 'descent with modification,' copying recent legislation, and often tie back to creationism through statements or sponsors.
The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston's medical school has been renamed the John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Medical School in honor of the largest gift in the university's history. The $75 million donation will provide full scholarships, support scientific discovery and innovation.
A special section in Perspectives on Psychological Science provides policy memos to the President from a 'Council of Psychological Science Advisors', offering recommendations on obesity, consumer debt, terrorism, and climate change. The section features articles translating scientific findings into federal policy improvements.
Timothy Paine, a renowned entomology professor at UC Riverside, has been awarded the Excellence in College and University Teaching Awards for Food and Agricultural Sciences. His innovative teaching methods have improved student learning outcomes, and he is recognized for his dedication to inspiring young minds.
Wayne State University is preparing a new program to train elementary and middle school mathematics teachers in Detroit with a $1.4 million NSF grant. The project aims to improve student scores in mathematics by providing scholarships, stipends, and mentorship.
E.A.S.Y. LLC has received a $1 million NIH grant to develop an interactive graphics printer that translates conventional graphics to raised-line versions for the blind, enabling them to take math and science courses like sighted students. The printer will be used in schools nationwide to create accessible worksheets.
Researchers at POSTECH developed a virtual K-pop dance teacher using precise 3D body joint tracking, allowing for accurate evaluation of dance movements. The system can track 15 human joints and monitor similarity to professional dancer movements, providing a score-based monitoring method.
Masaaki Suzuki, a leading authority on Johann Sebastian Bach, received the 2015 Gutenberg Teaching Award for his contributions to academic teaching in instrumental music, conducting, and vocal arts. The award recognizes his interdisciplinary approach to teaching, which crosses subject and cultural borders.
A new training program at the University of Texas at Dallas aims to prepare doctoral students in mathematics and statistics for a wide range of career paths. The project, funded by the NSF Enriched Doctoral Training Program, provides students with marketable skills and research experience through collaborations with industry partners.
Experts discuss the use of value-added models (VAMs) to evaluate teacher performance, with some arguing they are not effective and others defending their usefulness. The panel discussion highlighted the importance of accurate data systems and long-term approaches to estimating educational effects.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are developing a new approach called machine teaching, which uses sophisticated mathematics to model human learners and devise the best possible lessons. This method has immense potential to impact education by providing optimal, personalized lessons for students in various fields.
Professor Andreas Peter Ruediger, a leading expert in nanophotonics and nanoelectronics, has been awarded an honorary Fellowship of the Munich University of Applied Sciences (MUAS). He will collaborate with the university on a research project exploring multifunctional materials for new applications in nanotechnology.
A $3.5 million grant will support 100 first-grade classrooms in Sacramento and Houston, teaching specific skills to struggling readers. The program aims to improve both basic reading skills and comprehension, with preliminary data showing a positive impact on struggling readers.
Michigan State University will receive a $5 million grant from the George Lucas Educational Foundation to develop a project-based learning curriculum for elementary students. The project aims to improve science, math, reading, and writing skills through real-world problem-solving approaches.
Carlos Moreno, M.D., M.S.P.H., is recognized for his contributions to family medicine education at UTHealth Medical School. He has been awarded the F. Marian Bishop Leadership Award for his efforts to enhance the credibility of family medicine in academic settings.
A new study by Michigan State University scholars found that exceptional teachers incorporate their personal interests into the curriculum to create interactive and effective learning experiences. The research suggests that teachers should be encouraged to take creative risks and bring diverse perspectives to the classroom.
A study by University of Vermont professor Lori Erbrederis Meyer found that inclusive classrooms without disability awareness curricula do not increase friendships for students with disabilities. However, having a best friend helps children with high rates of problem behaviors and low social skills gain peer acceptance.
Brunel University London is providing a £29,625 grant to train 40 female engineering postgraduates to deliver 'Robo-Code' sessions at secondary schools. The program aims to introduce engineering thinking and computer programming to students, while also engaging girls in STEM subjects.
According to research published by the American Psychological Association, spending between one and two hours a day on math and science homework is ideal for adolescents. Students who do their homework alone score higher than those who need help, highlighting the importance of autonomy in learning.
Michigan State University is developing a carbon cycling program, called Carbon TIME, to teach middle- and high-school students about climate change. The program aims to help teachers gain buy-in from local school administrators and provide extensive professional support to significantly improve teaching strategies.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have traced the brain processes that occur during learning of technical concepts. They found that new knowledge is built up in the brain through multiple stages, involving different parts of the brain, and that appropriate instruction can bring out fundamental understanding at a deep level.
The special section reviews current scientific research on loneliness, exploring its biological, genetic, social, and behavioral aspects. Studies demonstrate a link between social isolation, loneliness, and mortality, as well as the effectiveness of various interventions to prevent or mitigate loneliness.
Researchers at the University of Missouri identified a plan to evaluate teachers using a 'proportional' system, which considers school resources. This approach aims to level the playing field among teachers working with students from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
Plymouth University has received £1.2 million from HEFCE to invest in teaching facilities for Biomedical and Human Bioscience programs. The funding will enhance STEM education and research capabilities, supporting the university's reputation for world-leading medical science.
Louisiana Tech University has been awarded a $1.45 million grant to produce more highly-effective secondary math and science teachers through the UTeach program, which aims to address the need for qualified STEM educators. The university will work with partners to increase the number of highly-qualified STEM teachers in the region.
A study by University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business researchers finds that political correctness in the workplace boosts creativity among mixed-sex teams by clarifying expectations and reducing sexist language. This challenges the conventional view that PC constraints stifle creative expression.
The Thirty Meter Telescope has launched the THINK Fund, a $1 million annual initiative to support Hawaii Island students in STEM disciplines. The fund will provide scholarships and grants for STEM education initiatives, with a focus on improving opportunities for Native Hawaiian students.
Dr. Pedro Noguera, a prominent education rights activist and sociologist, has been awarded the SAGE-CASBS prize for his groundbreaking work on transforming schools and improving educational outcomes for underserved students.
A model describes how a person's size determines their carrying capacity, not just body weight. The study reveals that smaller individuals can comfortably carry more pack weight than expected.
A new study at Southern Methodist University is testing whether students can learn algebra by authoring their own stories based on their personal interests. The research aims to improve long-term understanding of algebraic ideas and make math more accessible and captivating for students.
Researchers at the University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences conducted a new study on leadership development. The study found that leadership development progresses in three stages: readiness, willingness, and ability. Students who develop these skills can become effective leaders. Leadership i...
Researchers at UC San Diego developed a new version of CodeSpells, a video game that teaches children to code in Java. After playing the game, kids aged 8-12 can write code by hand in Java.
BioEYES K-12 program delivers two-week environmental curriculum using live zebrafish to teach students about local watersheds and pollution. The award supports the delivery of 'Your Watershed, Your Backyard' curriculum to 90 middle school students from Baltimore City Public Schools.
Jennifer Stiegler-Balfour and Kasey Powers have been awarded the TIPD Award for their innovative teaching approaches. The award aims to promote excellence in teaching and learning, supporting early-career faculty and graduate students.
A new study by Michigan State University finds that Teach for America alumni candidates prioritize both local and national issues in their school board campaigns. The research suggests that supporting TFA alumni to run for local offices is an effective way to advance the organization's agenda.
A new study by PhysTEC has identified two crucial factors for sustaining university and college programs designed to increase the number of highly qualified physics teachers. Faculty members who champion physics teacher education, combined with institutional motivation and commitment, can ensure program viability.
The Association of American Universities (AAU) has launched the AAU STEM Initiative Hub, a website providing resources for universities to showcase innovative efforts improving undergraduate STEM teaching. The hub will also profile efforts by eight AAU STEM Project Sites and provide a platform for sharing strategies and challenges.
Ariel Anbar, a leading geoscientist, has been selected as an HHMI Professor at ASU, focusing on developing online virtual field trips to teach Earth's evolution. The grant will support his research and educational activities, aiming to re-invigorate instruction in historical geology.
Researchers found that children can tell when adults are telling the truth but not the whole truth, and compensate by exploring more on their own. This skill is crucial for learning from others, as much knowledge comes from other people. Children's ability to evaluate information helps them adjust their trust in teachers.