CISSTEM: Center for Integrative Studies in STEM, University of South Alabama

Initial Publication Date: August 21, 2013

CISSTEM: Center for Integrative Studies in STEM

Director: Julie Cwikla, Ph.D.
University of South Alabama
Established: 2012

http://southalabama.edu/centers/cisstem/

Vision and Goals

CISSTEM is a playground where scientists can collaborate, experiment, evaluate, explore, and grow innovative STEM activities. We bring together regional and national researchers to contribute to the knowledge base addressing critical issues in STEM education - birth to expert.

Center/Program Structure

CISSTEM is a University Center championed by three College Deans. The Dean of Education, the Dean of Engineering, and the Dean of Arts and Science. Dr. Julie Cwikla is CISSTEM's founding director. She holds a doctoral degree in Mathematics Education from the University of Delaware, a master's degree from New York University, and a bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Chemistry from Fairfield University. Over 30 STEM researchers regionally and nationally are currently collaborating on CISSTEM programs and developments.

Description of Programming

CISSTEM is a center of excellence engaging regional and national researchers and educators to develop integrative STEM educational research programs to investigate questions of national significance in support of the region's industries, educators, and learners. CISSTEM brings together regional and national researchers and educators to address critical issues in STEM education. Our research faculty investigate questions of national significance, while investing research funds regionally in the community to benefit STEM learners at all levels. The Gulf Coast region supports a diverse population, a multitude of STEM industries both on land and at sea, a wide range of economic status, and a significant density of STEM scientists and engineers, both federal and industrial. CISSTEM will lead the regional conversation about STEM education and economic development and sit at the national table to contribute to the ongoing data driven conversation.

CISSTEM provides a university based home for these discussions, connecting research faculty members, local education agencies, teacher educators, regional philanthropic groups, and industry. The Center facilitates collaboration across colleges within the university as well as provides for regional and national STEM education collaboration. A fluid idea clearinghouse will illuminate common goals, understandings, and interests around STEM education. And it will allow CISSTEM to lead the integration and development of new STEM research ideas and programs.

The ultimate goal is to improve STEM learning opportunities for all. Schools districts, informal educators, various STEM-critical industries, non-profit organizations, university research faculty, and federal agencies can all coalesce under the CISSTEM umbrella to share resources and provide a more cohesive learning system for the region. Leveraging one another's assets provide a stronger foundation for STEM learning experiences, and allow for systematic investigations of national significance about what works for learners of all ages.