Globally Competent STEM Teaching: Using Place-Based Frameworks to Strengthen P-16 STEM Education

Program Abstract: Virtual Galápagos, an iUSE NSF-funded pilot program, seeks to improve science and pedagogical knowledge among undergraduate students through the creation of interactive digital curriculum for elementary-aged learners. The Galápagos Islands, one of the world’s most biodiverse environments, acts as the focal point for this project. Participants use design-based approaches to develop modules featuring interdisciplinary science topics, including earth systems and ecosystem dynamics. Undergraduate designers ground their curriculum in inclusive science teaching and learning practices that promote engagement. Initial successes of the program include sustained participant commitment and positive educator feedback of curriculum. We seek collegial input on our plans to expand this program in order to invite new institutions, voices, and perspectives. Presenters will pitch a multi-institutional scale-up of the project from the current pilot to evaluate its feasibility and potential effectiveness for elevating undergraduate STEM education in support of current and future K-12 STEM teachers.