Introducing the SCIENCE Collaborative: Furman’s Pilot Year
The Faculty Development Center is pleased to announce that Furman has joined the SCIENCE Collaborative (Student-Centered Institutional Enhancement and Co-Learning Exchange) for a pilot year.While the name may suggest a narrow focus, the Collaborative is designed for all faculty, regardless of discipline. This national consortium of 14 institutions is dedicated to supporting evidence-based teaching practices, fostering research collaborations, and providing grant opportunities that enhance student success across all curriculum.
During this pilot phase, we are evaluating the Collaborative’s long-term fit for our campus. Our first-year efforts are specifically focused on two high-impact initiatives:
- Community of Practice: ASCEND Survey. A data-driven, formative assessment tool that provides instructors with private feedback on classroom climate and student engagement. Results link directly to suggested evidence-based teaching practices.
- Community of Practice: Pedagogical Partnerships. Structured peer groups where faculty engage with students as thought partners to develop more inclusive and engaging learning environments.
We invite anyone with a passion for student-centered teaching or an interest in joining these national conversations to get involved. Whether you want to utilize the ASCEND survey in your spring courses or participate in a Community of Practice, your perspective is valuable to our evaluation of this partnership.
To learn more, share your interest, or ask questions, please reach out to Stephanie Freis. We look forward to exploring these new opportunities for growth and collaboration with you.