Rethink traditional
teaching methods to
improve learning
and retention
Richard M. Felder
& Rebecca Brent
Educational research has repeatedly shown
that compared to traditional teachercentered instruction, certain learnercentered methods lead to improved learning
outcomes, greater development of critical
high-level skills, and increased retention in
science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
Teaching and Learning STEM presents a
trove of practical research-based strategies
for designing and teaching courses and assessing students’ learning. The book draws
on the authors’ extensive backgrounds and
decades of experience in STEM education
and faculty development. Its engaging and
well-illustrated descriptions will equip you
to implement the strategies in your courses
and to deal effectively with problems
(including student resistance) that might
occur in the implementation.
“Felder and Brent, longtime leaders in STEM education
research, fill an important gap by providing both
insightful and very practical guidance for the college
instructor trying to translate the findings of STEM
research into effective classroom practice."
—Carl Wieman, Noble Laureate in Physics,
Department of Physics and Graduate School
of Education, Stanford University
Coming in March 2016!
Preorder with discount code 25HAE for 25% off* at
www.josseybass.com/highereducation
*Discounts do not apply to e-books, which are already discounted.
More Advance Praise for
Teaching and Learning STEM
“In their research-based, direct, and exceptionally readable style, Felder and Brent
provide one of the few—and the best—practical guides to teaching in the disciplines of
science, technology, engineering and mathematics. From designing a course to teaching students to assessing for learning, busy faculty members will find countless, creative, and straightforward strategies for creating a more learner-centered, evidencebased teaching environment.”
—Mary Deane Sorcinelli, research professor and founding director, Center for
Teaching & Faculty Development, University of Massachusetts Amherst
“Felder and Brent break down the last few decades of advances in STEM education into coherent, useful, and well-organized advice, creating down-to-earth lessons that
keep the needs and interests of the STEM educator front and center.”
—Brian P. Coppola, Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Chemistry and associate chair for
Educational Development & Practice, University of Michigan
“While designed for university faculty, Teaching and Learning STEM serves equally
well for high school teachers of STEM courses, particularly those of us working with
advanced level students. The chapters on active learning, effective use of technology,
and developing problem solving and creative thinking skills should be studied by teachers of all subjects working with students of any age.”
—Daniel J. Teague, instructor of mathematics, North Carolina School of Science and
Mathematics
“Richard Felder and Rebecca Brent have created a treasure chest of wisdom and practical strategies for improving learning. It is organized in a way to be accessible to firsttime and veteran educators alike, and I have already started applying their ideas in my
classroom!”
—Sheri Sheppard, mechanical engineering professor and director of the Designing
Education Lab, Stanford University
“Imagine a book that is like having a welcoming and seasoned faculty colleague just
down the hall, ready with engaging stories and sage advice. That is this book.”
—Kimberly D. Tanner, professor, department of biology, and director, The Science
Education Partnership and Assessment Laboratory, San Francisco State University