Inclusive Excellence in STEM
We catalyze pedagogical innovations and partner with faculty to guide departmental-/program-based circular change projects that advance inclusive excellence with a focus on gateway, large-enrollment, lab, and high attrition courses. Further, we leverage HHMI IE3, SEISMIC, and CIRTL, as well as promote distinctive CIRTL programming—Centering Identities in STEM, Pedagogical Innovations in STEM, and Searle Teaching-as-Research—to advance inclusive, accessible teaching, transform STEM education at scale, and diversify STEM careers.
Featured Programs
CIRTL Certificate Program
Northwestern is a longstanding member of the Center for the Integration of Research, Teaching and Learning (CIRTL), an internationally recognized network of over 40 research universities supporting the development of future faculty committed to implementing accessible, evidence-based teaching practices. The Searle Center facilitates Northwestern graduate students and postdocs who pursue recognition as a CIRTL Associate, Practitioner, and Scholar. Learn more.
Centering Identities in STEM
A peer-facilitated, evidence-driven reading group designed to deepen participant understanding of equitable teaching practices in STEM. Addressing a variety of principles related to equity and learning such as race-conscious sense-making of teaching, awareness of racial dynamics in STEM classrooms, and humanizing pedagogies, this group empowers participants to develop an equity-based mindset and a critical approach to effectively addressing inequalities in STEM education. Learn more.
Pedagogical Innovations in STEM
A 60-minute in-person scholarly exchange offered each quarter, showcasing leading-edge research that informs teaching and learning strategies. Our featured scholar for winter is Dr. Stephanie Knezz, Associate Professor of Instruction in Chemistry. We will delve into curious questions on how instructors can effectively balance acknowledging students' diverse identities with the need to focus on course content and the ways personal storytelling by instructors and students serves as a bridge to enhance engagement in the STEM classroom. Learn more.