HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – The University of Alabama in Huntsville’s College of Science has launched a new initiative to enhance undergraduate learning through innovative teaching methods.
Starting in Fall 2025, the Toward Excellence in Science Teaching (TEST) initiative invited faculty to propose projects aimed at improving science education. Six projects received funding and are being implemented in Spring 2026.
Dr. Sharifa Love-Rutledge and Dr. Elizabeth Okoth from the Department of Chemistry are leading a project to integrate Peer Assisted Study Sessions into General Chemistry. Okoth is also working on strengthening foundational arithmetic skills for chemistry students.
In the Department of Computer Science, Dr. Timothy S. Newman is enhancing training for teaching assistants to improve instruction quality.
Meanwhile, the Department of Physics and Astronomy is exploring virtual reality laboratories and improving lab instruction through digital resources. Dr. Themis Chronis is enhancing undergraduate physics laboratory instruction. Dr. Buddhi Pushpawela and Dr. Will Waldron are exploring the use of virtual reality laboratories to deepen conceptual understanding in algebra-based physics courses.
Shelley Lenahan from the Department of Mathematical Sciences is expanding the Learning Assistant model in Calculus I to boost student success.
School leaders say these projects reflect the college’s commitment to advancing science education through collaboration and innovative teaching practices.
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Courtesy: UAH