Student Success and Curriculum Research
The College of Science is in the midst of major innovations in the curriculum for Science students. These innovations combine the development and implementation of an outcome-based core curriculum that features experiential learning opportunities, as recently approved by the College of Science faculty. Modernizing undergraduate courses and curricula, using the latest in science education research, has been an important focus. Examples are the initiatives in general chemistry with the Center for Authentic Science Practice in Education (CASPIE), the National Center for Learning and Teaching of Nanoscience, and a Course Curriculum and Laboratory Improvement project, focused on the introductory engineering physics sequence. Another important direction is the initiative to develop a signature “Great Issues” course, required of Science students to explore the impact of science on society and society on science. Work in these areas has the support of the Center for Research & Engagement in Science & Mathematics Education (CRESME) and the Discovery Learning Center, with collaborations from other centers and projects across the campus.
Support for student success extends outside of the classroom. Efforts such as the Women in Science Program, directed by Barb Clark, and the Multicultural Program, directed by Zenephia Evans, have increased the retention and success of women and minority students in the college.
Efforts to improve Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education throughout the State of Indiana are led by outreach director, Bill Walker. One example includes work by the College of Science K-12 Outreach team in our Mathematics and Science Partnerships with the Community Schools of Frankfort, Shelbyville Central Schools, and the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township in Indianapolis. The Science Outreach Coordinators work with K-8 teachers to improve instruction and student literacy in mathematics and science. A second example is the development of the I-STEM Resource Network, which is providing a platform for experts from across Indiana to address STEM education throughout Indiana. Also, cross-college collaborations (such as the new College of Education-College of Science Woodrow Wilson Fellowship Program, which focuses on training teachers for rural schools, on the networking of rural schools, and on the development of models for using distance education to provide high-quality STEM education in rural communities) will extend our efforts in the state.
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