FCRSTEM Florida Center for Research in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Florida State University

FCRSTEM Created by the Florida Legislature “The purpose of the center is increasing student achievement in mathematics and science, with an emphasis on K-12 education.” Chapter , Florida Statutes

FCRSTEM Multi-disciplinary research center Jointly administered by: FSU College of Arts & Sciences FSU College of Education FSU Learning Systems Institute, Office of the Provost

FCRSTEM Center Director, Harry Kroto, Ph.D. Nobel Laureate Buckminsterfullerine (“buckyballs”)

FCRSTEM Primary roles Research Testing models of teacher preparation Technical assistance to state and districts Dissemination of evidence-based practices

FCRSTEM Research: Six multi-year studies 1.The effectiveness of GEMS professional development in elementary and middle schools 2.The effectiveness of assessment-to- instruction software (A2i) designed to help elementary teachers individualize science instruction

FCRSTEM Research 3. Current use of technology-based science and math instruction in middle and high schools 4. Relative effectiveness of elementary mathematics curricula

FCRSTEM Research 5. Effectiveness of the Texas Instruments Model Districts Program, a systemic intervention for closing the mathematics achievement gap in middle and high schools. 6. Cognitive processes leading to superior performance in advanced placement (AP) math and science courses.

FCRSTEM FSU-Teach Model: UTeach at University of Texas at Austin Goal: Attract science majors into the teaching profession and provide them with exceptional preparation for teaching science or mathematics

FCRSTEM FSUTeach Key features:  Recruitment & marketing strategies  Strong content preparation & high-quality pedagogical preparation including early, successful teaching experiences  Instruction by master teachers & FSU Faculty  Payment of teachers for pre-clinical & clinical supervision  Strong induction program

FCRSTEM Support for state-level initiatives: -Revision and implementation of standards -Increasing the rigor of the curriculum -Assessment

FCRSTEM Specifics Advise on revision of standards Rate the standards on rigor (workgroups) Develop a standards database Revise course frameworks (workgroups) Recommend assessment instruments to inform instruction

FCRSTEM Females and Minorities Plan to increase participation and success in STEM education In partnership with - School districts - Universities - Community colleges - Business community - Private, non-profit partners

FCRSTEM Content Enhancement Routines Strategies to help teachers focus on targeted information, present information explicitly, prompt students to elaborate and make ideas and relationships concrete. Visual devices to help students organize, understand, remember, and apply information presented in class.

FCRSTEM Global Educational Outreach (GEO) Free Internet modules to help teachers: - Teach important scientific concepts - Introduce students to cutting edge science - Get kids excited about learning science and becoming scientists

FCRSTEM Math & Science Partnership Grants Coordination of Evaluation Science grants in ; both the following year

FCRSTEM Dissemination - Regional colloquia - Biennial conference - Marketing plan - info on STEM education and careers to parents, students and teachers through the media and technology - Student achievement briefs

FCRSTEM

FCRSTEM Questions about FCR-STEM Christine Johnson Phone: (850)