Integrating Education Research and Practice
The MAINE CENTER FOR RESEARCH IN STEM EDUCATION (RiSE Center) conducts research into education at all levels of instruction within the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (the STEM disciplines). We also work to integrate education research into STEM teaching and learning through our many programs, projects, and partnerships.
Since its formation in 2001, the RiSE Center has hosted conferences annually focused on integrating STEM education research and practice. This integration is a significant part of many of the Center’s initiatives, including the Maine STEM Partnership, a state-wide preK–16+ STEM education improvement community with 160 Maine schools, 100 school districts, 700 teachers, 29,000 students, and over 30 University of Maine faculty members.
The interdisciplinary RiSE Center (Maine Center for Research in STEM Education) is an excellent example of how faculty, staff and students integrate research, teaching and outreach. They incorporate STEM education research into teaching practice — through teacher preparation, education reform, community partnerships, and professional community. This has created numerous positive effects for learners and educators, at all levels, throughout the state. University of Maine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy
