Engaging Minds in Science and Math Classrooms

The Surprising Power of Joy

“We decide, every day, whether we are going to turn students on or off to science and mathematics in our classrooms.” Daily decisions about how to incorporate creativity, choice, and autonomy—integral components of engagement—can build students’ self-efficacy, keep them motivated, and strengthen their identities as scientists and mathematicians. In this book, Eric Brunsell and Michelle A. Fleming show you how to apply the joyful learning framework introduced in Engaging Minds in the Classroom to instruction in science and mathematics. Acknowledging that many students—particularly girls and students of color—do not see themselves as mathematicians and scientists, the authors provide a series of suggested activities that are aligned with standards and high expectations to engage and motivate all learners. Given the current focus on encouraging students to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) studies, this book is a welcome addition to every teacher’s reference collection. Eric Brunsell is a former high school science teacher and is now associate professor of science education at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Michelle A. Fleming is a former elementary and middle school teacher and is now assistant professor of science and mathematics education at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio.