As chemical education researchers, we tend to wear many hats: research mentors, departmental teaching experts, teacher education advisors, and professional development leaders. This is particularly prevalent at what are often referred to as “compass” schools (i.e. “Western State University”) which tend to be smaller, more teaching-focused state institutions compared to their flagship neighbors. However, the scholarship can be just as robust, albeit, more varied, which while rewarding presents some challenges. This talk will highlight some of the projects I have been involved with throughout my 14 years at the University of Northern Iowa, including research initiated and primarily conducted by undergraduate students, master students, and colleagues.  Topics range from research experiences for undergrads and K-12 teachers, to multiplex relationships in rural education, to teacher professional development, to curriculum improvements in general chemistry, and all of them taught me something about who I am as a mentor, collaborator and scholar.

Herding cats: Chemical education scholarship at a “compass” school

255th National Meeting (2018)

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