Discipline-Based Education Research (DBER)
Improving teaching and learning in STEM.
Cissy Ballen, Assistant Professor
Research Summary
The Ballen Lab conducts research on biology education and STEM learning outcomes through investigations of the causes and consequences of differences in science literacy and how instructional design can reduce educational barriers. Using an integrated experimental and theoretical approach, we study how classroom and social contexts shape student learning, professional development and career trajectories.
- How students relate to scientists impacts student retention: A $1 million NSF award funds a study to examine data literacy instruction with direct connection to STEM
- COSAM researches disparity between scientists featured in biology textbooks and students
- COSAM Faculty Focus: Cissy Ballen researches reducing barriers in the classroom to promote student success
Resources
BER jobs
Society for the Advancement of Biology Education Research - SABER Jobs
Association for Science Teacher Education
American Educational Research Association
Summer Institutes on Scientific Teaching
National meetings:
Gordon Research Conference, Biology Education Research