Changing Your STEM Teaching Practices
Adapting STEM teaching methods is essential for improving student engagement, learning outcomes, and equity. Research shows that active learning strategies help close achievement gaps, especially for underrepresented and first-generation students. While traditional lectures are common, they often do not promote deep understanding or inclusivity.
A Research-Based Framework for Improving STEM Teaching
Reflect on your current teaching practices. Are students passively absorbing information, or are they actively engaging with the material? Consider if your assessments accurately measure conceptual understanding and if your methods support diverse learners. Research highlights that active learning can enhance retention and mastery, particularly in STEM fields
Effective teaching strategies should be grounded in evidence. Active learning approaches—such as peer discussions, problem-solving exercises, and collaborative activities—have been proven to enhance learning outcomes. Additionally, structured learning communities and inquiry-based methods can significantly improve success and retention rates for underrepresented students in STEM.
Adopt new teaching methods gradually. Small-scale modifications, like integrating peer discussions or interactive polling, can ease the transition for both instructors and students. Ensuring that active learning strategies are part of the core course design rather than optional can enhance their effectiveness. Equitable teaching practices can also help close achievement gaps.
Ongoing assessment is critical to understanding the impact of your teaching changes. Define clear success metrics, such as improved conceptual understanding and increased student engagement. Collecting both qualitative and quantitative data allows for evidence-based adjustments to teaching methods.
Improving STEM instruction is an ongoing process. Engaging in professional development, reflecting on teaching practices, and collaborating with teaching and learning centers can support sustainable change. By adopting proven active learning strategies, instructors can create more engaging, inclusive, and effective learning environments for all students.