Shaping the future of STEM education: Nobel laureate Carl Wieman visits Queen Mary

A Nobel Prize-winning physicist and pioneer in science education reform, Professor Wieman engaged with faculty and researchers from Queen Mary at a meeting organised by the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences (SPCS). The aim was to discuss the future of education in the subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Medicine (STEM). 

In 2001, he was awarded a Nobel Prize in Physics for creating a new state of matter – the Bose-Einstein condensate. This achievement not only propelled our understanding of quantum mechanics but also opened doors for further exploration in areas like atom interferometry and ultracold chemistry. 

Professor Wieman's visit marks a significant moment for Queen Mary 's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of STEM education. SPCS remains at the forefront of developing innovative teaching methods that empower students from all backgrounds to become the next generation of scientific leaders. 

The day started with a series of presentations by Queen Mary Academy fellows, showcasing their groundbreaking approaches to STEM education. These presentations covered topics such as peer-led team learning, learner engagement analytics, team-based learning, and AI skills development. 

The visit highlighted Queen Mary 's dedication to diversity and inclusion in STEM education. Dr Tippu Sheriff, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry, presented on the "Missing Elements" program, which aims to promote awareness of historical and contemporary contributions from scientists from underrepresented backgrounds. 

One of our undergraduate students, Shane Dunne, who has worked alongside Dr Lesley Howell, Director of Education at SPCS, then presented on "unleashing augmented reality (AR) to support a skills-based lab curriculum." Their innovative project uses AR technology co-created with students to empower students to master essential practical skills independently. 

Professor Wieman capped off the day with a captivating seminar on "Taking a Scientific Approach to Science and Engineering Education." Professor Wieman emphasised, "Our brains learn by strengthening relevant neural connections, much like muscles that grow stronger with practice. This principle holds the key to better learning, with the potential to decrease dropout and failure rates."  

He argued that effective science education should equip students with the same problem-solving toolbox used by experts in science, engineering, and medicine. This "expert thinking," he stressed, can only be achieved through tackling authentic problems. His conclusion was clear: effective teaching design and implementation, informed by research, is far superior to traditional lecture methods. 

"Professor Wieman's visit was a tremendous opportunity for our faculty to learn from a true pioneer in science education," said Professor Adrian Bevan, head of School of Physical and Chemical Sciences. “We are committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that equips students with the skills they need to succeed."