AgSTEM Project

School districts across the world are rapidly adopting innovative learning technologies such as aquaponics systems.  Such learning tools when utilized properly can greatly enhance the quality of STEM instruction by augmenting the ability of teachers to engage students in immersive learning experiences that anchor content knowledge and develop skills such as STEM literacy, critical-thinking, team-building, innovation, digital competency, cultural awareness, and entrepreneurship.

SEI Lab is engaged in a research project sponsored by the Gwinnett-Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and the Time2Give Foundation to examine best practices in integrating agricultural education into K-12 curricula that focuses on the computer science, entrepreneurship, social innovation, and awareness of environmental issues. 

• Collaborating with school districts in Georgia and partner schools in the Dominican Republic this project is focused on accomplishing three major objectives:

• Examining best-practices for integrating AgSTEM Education into the curriculum at K-12 schools and providing professional development for STEM educators related AgSTEM

• Creating an international resource for best-practices in AgSTEM Education Analyzing policy and practices that will support STEM integration and community engagement in STEM

Building Capacity for High Quality Equity-Focused Elementary Mathematics and Science Teaching through Virtual Supervision

This project incorporates an innovative model of teacher induction that harnesses the expertise of graduates of Mercer’s K-5 Mathematics and STEM Endorsement Programs to mentor and support pre-service elementary math and science teachers in their field placements. Mathematics and Science are both key areas for improvement in teacher education. This research study led by Dr. Susan Cannon, Assistant Professor of Mathematics Education, seeks to enhance pre-service teachers’ achievement in their field placement courses.   This study will also utilize data-based assessment tools and anti-racist pedagogies in the endorsement program and with preservice teachers to highlight existing biases so that teachers can build more equitable science and mathematics communities.

STEM Career Pipeline Research Initiative

SEI Lab is engaged in a research project that is focused on examining on-ramps and impediments to accessing STEM careers for underserved populations.

This research will analyze:

• The quality and availability of STEM education/career resources in various communities in the United States and abroad

• Factors that influence interest in STEM careers among populations that are historically under-represented in STEM fields

FDA Strategic Partnership

Mercer University’s STEM Education Innovation (SEI) Lab engages in research related to teaching and learning in STEM education along with supporting the STEM career pipeline.  To further this work, SEI Lab has developed a strategic partnership with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to support Mercer students with an interest in participating in STEM related internships and/or obtaining positions with the FDA or other federal agencies. 

 The goals of this partnership are threefold:

• Proactive recruitment of STEM talent, particularly among systemically marginalized groups (e.g. women, ethnic minorities, low-income students, etc.)

• Develop a pipeline of STEM professionals from Mercer to the FDA and other federal agencies

• Develop and implement other mutually beneficial actions

Project STEM for ALL

Project STEM for ALL is focused on examining best practices for STEM inclusion for historically marginalized populations including students with special needs and English language learners (ELLs).  Additionally, this research will examine strategies for increasing access to high-quality STEM enrichment for low-income communities.  The overarching goal of this project is to identify asset-based models for STEM-inclusion among historically marginalized student populations.

Atlanta Citizen Review Board (ACRB) Citizen Science Partnership

Mercer University’s STEM Education Innovation (SEI) Lab, in collaboration with the Atlanta Citizen Review Board (ACRB), is leading a series of Citizen STEM projects that will engage community partners in utilizing STEM as a tool for addressing complex societal issues.  This project will support community engagement and awareness related to community policing practices; police accountability; and fostering cooperation among law enforcement, government agencies, community organizations, and residents within the city of Atlanta. 

An overarching goal of the Citizen STEM projects coordinated by SEI Lab and the ACRB will be showcasing the direct connection between STEM disciplines and addressing complex real-world issues. Thereby creating opportunities for community stakeholders, K-12 students, and college students guided by an interdisciplinary team of experts to apply their learning to act as community change agents.

Real IMPACT Curriculum Development Initiative

Mercer University’s SEI Lab is partnering with the Real IMPACT Center, Inc., a non-profit organization that supports STEM/STEAM for girls in Central Georgia. The SEI Team will develp STEM curricula to support out of school enrichment for girls from Central Georgia and beyond.  This experience is designed to expose students to STEM/STEAM and support their interest in pursuing STEM careers. Real IMPACT will administer STEM/STEAM curricula developed by SEI Lab during the academic year and summer 2021.