Ryan Summers Email & Phone Number

My research interests relate to the study of science teaching and learning in precollege settings, with a focus on the nature of science and how teachers can be supported while helping students to develop informed views. In brief, nature of science draws from the history and philosophy of science to outline the characteristics of scientific knowledge and how it is generated, refined by the scientific community, and shaped by the cultural context in which it was created. Recent projects have centered on the representations of NOS in science education resources and other documents that shape teaching and learning in science classrooms. My research also examines precollege students’ attitudes toward science, including their general feeling about the subject and intentions to continue studying science in the future. Fostering positive attitudes toward science is important because the disposition students develop in K-12 can shape their appreciation of science as adults, and even their willingness to explore science-related careers. My research informs my teaching, particularly with regard to the preparation of future middle and high school teachers. I strive to engage these students in scientific practices and meaningful reflection to deepen their own understanding of core science ideas and explore ways of facilitating learning in their own classrooms.

Listed skills include Research, Teaching, Public Speaking, Higher Education, and 7 others.