Dr. Laird Kramer is Professor of Physics and Director of the STEM Transformation Institute at Florida International University. A core design element of initiatives at FIU brings the practices of scientists into the classroom to create an inclusive learning community and improve opportunities for a diverse student population. In this presentation, Dr. Kramer discusses how incorporating authentic STEM practices in the classroom benefits all students by giving them the opportunity to develop their understanding from peers and expert faculty and motivating them towards academic and career success. The presentation will provide an overview of the modeling Instruction and undergraduate Learning Assistant (LA) programs, and highlight their guiding principles and strategies for increasing hands-on, minds-on learning.

In the interactive session, participants will develop their understanding of mechanisms to integrate authentic practices into their classroom as well as engage in activities that will provide insight into the next steps for implementation.