FSU hosts Nobel winner for lecture on science education

Florida State University is set to host Nobel laureate Carl Wieman Thursday, Feb. 14, to discuss his research-based approach to science education and how new practices can provide more effective learning for college-level science students. The lecture, sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences and FSU-Teach, is slated for 11 a.m. at the FSU College of Medicine Durell Peaden Auditorium, in Tallahassee, Florida. 

STEM professors and graduate students have the opportunity to gain insight on Wieman’s research and experiences included in his recent book “Improving How Universities Teach Science.” Wieman is a professor of physics and education at Stanford University and has won an array of awards and honors for his innovative work in both fields. In 2001, he won the Nobel Prize in physics, and was named the Carnegie Foundation Professor of the Year in 2004.  

Wieman’s visit is an example of Florida State’s efforts to be at the forefront of understanding and implementing research-supported teaching techniques. 

Ellen Granger, director of the Office of Science Teaching Activities and biological science faculty member, hopes this event will help elevate the conversation about STEM teaching at FSU. 

“Dr. Wieman’s lecture will raise awareness about what the research on STEM teaching supports, the ways that students learn STEM subjects best and how he has successfully implemented these in his own university courses,” Granger said. 

The event is held in conjunction with the FSU-Teach 10-year anniversary celebration.