Center for Teaching Excellence in Science and Mathematics Utilizing Environment as an Integrating Context (EIC)

Dr. Joe Baust - Director

The EIC approach will integrate the disciplines of mathematics and science with other subjects to engage both pre-service and in-service teachers in problem solving situations that model a hands-on approach and integrates content and pedagogy to address environmental issues. The outcome is the improvement of test scores of students in all subjects, motivation of students, and increased interest in school as could be shown by student performance.

The College of Science, Engineering, and Technology and the College of Education will collaborate on this project with the overall goal of increasing content and pedagogical knowledge to impact the teaching and learning of mathematics and science in Kentucky classrooms.

Under the aegis of the proposed Center for Teaching Excellence in Mathematics and Science, the following will be a developed: (1) new interdisciplinary content-based teacher preparation courses and laboratory experiences; (2) modified and refined courses primarily taken by pre-service teachers; (3) outreach and summer institute courses for teachers currently in the field; (4) workshops for teachers in the field; and, (5) linkages to teachers, and their students in the public schools through demonstration programs and interaction with mathematicians and scientists as a way of encouraging the study of mathematics and science.