- Year 2024
- NSF Noyce Award # 1950312
- First Name Steven
- Last Name Fletcher
- Registration Faculty/Administrator/Other
- Role Principal Investigator (PI)
- Presenters
Steven Fletcher, St. Edwards University
Need
The abrupt shift to online instruction and the transition of all university operations to a virtual format during the pandemic posed significant challenges for the recruitment and retention of Noyce Scholars at our small private university. Compounding these difficulties were a steady decline in enrollment in STEM and teacher education programs over the past five years and ongoing institutional restructuring. Inspired by Bruce Lee’s philosophy of adaptability, encapsulated in his famous quote, “Be water, my friend,” our program embraced flexibility and resilience to navigate these turbulent times. This poster explores the specific challenges we faced, including technological barriers, reduced student engagement, and shifting institutional priorities. We will also discuss the innovative strategies we implemented to bolster our recruitment and support efforts for Noyce Scholars, and discuss how we adopted a fluid approach to change. Recalibrating the grant objectives has allowed us to sustain our program’s mission and continue to inspire the next generation of STEM educators.
Approach
Lessons learned from developing/implementing a Track 1 project, Track 2 project, Track 3 project, or Track 4 Research project
