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3-unit Course on STEM Teaching

Principles of University Teaching and Learning in STEM: E 110 (3 units, pass-fail).

No Prerequisites. This course qualifies as an option to fulfill the required "Learn" component of the Caltech Project for Effective Teaching (CPET) Certificate of Practice in University Teaching.

Course Description

This graduate course examines the research on university-level STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) teaching and learning, which has been used to inform a well-established body of evidence-based teaching practices. Increasingly, future PIs and faculty are called upon to demonstrate knowledge of and ability to apply established pedagogical and assessment practices, as well as to analyze the efficacy of new approaches. Weekly interactive meetings will provide focused overviews and guided application of key pedagogical research, such as prior knowledge and misconceptions, novice-expert differences, and cognitive development as applied to university teaching. We will explore the roles of active learning, student engagement, and inclusive teaching practices in designing classes where all students have an equal opportunity to be successful and feel a sense of belonging, both in the course and as scientists. Readings will inform in-class work and students will apply principles to a project of their choice.

Course Background

E110 was started in Fall 2013. It has been offered once or twice per year since 2013. The course was most recently taught by Dr. Melissa Dabiri in Spring 2022. Over 200 students have taken the class for credit, along with dozens of auditors, and E110 is formally part of the CPET Certificate of Practice in University Teaching.