Inclusive STEM Teaching Spring 2023

Stat 1, Introduction to Statistics

Cultivating Connections•Growth Mindset•Active Learning

Reflection on Instructional Change:

I started bringing cookies to my classrooms for my students because I thought this can be an effective way to cultivate connections. Sharing food can create a sense of community and camaraderie among students, as it is a universal experience that brings people together. This also makes them feel welcomed, valued and cared for. I believe this small act of kindness can go a long way in building trust and rapport with my students, which can ultimately lead to a more positive and productive learning environment. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for me and my students to engage in casual conversation and get to know each other on a more personal level. Overall, bringing cookies to my classrooms is a simple yet powerful way to cultivate connections and build a strong sense of community among my students.

I encourage growth mindset in my classes by giving them a chance for exam corrections. In the future I'm thinking of making my students aware of the difference between growth mindset and fixed mindset. I plan on bringing videos/ stories to my classroom that show the importance/advantage of having growth mindset. I also plan on giving my students a self-reflection activity to reflect on their own mindset and how it affects their learning and performance. Have them identify times when they have demonstrated a growth mindset and times when they have had a fixed mindset. Overall, I think teaching the concept of growth mindset requires a combination of education, positive reinforcement, and practice. By promoting a growth mindset in my classroom, I can help my students develop a love of learning and the resilience they need to succeed in school and in life.

Evidence of Instructional Change

Cookies to cultivate connections!

A Resource to share with students to promote growth mindset

Course Syllabus

Faculty Bio

I am an Assistant Professor in the department of Mathematics and Statistics. I joined Sac State in Fall 2019. Before joining Sac State I worked in Texas from 2015-2019.

I graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2009 with an M.S. in Math. While working on my Masters I discovered my fantasy for different kinds of data, which eventually led to my interest in the field of Statistics and making me earn a Ph.D. in Statistics from Auburn University in 2015. My experience in the doctoral program helped me discover my interest in teaching and research. Consulting is another perk that I enjoy for being a Statistician.

In my free time I love to cook, watch movies, do outdoor cycling, socialize, and spend time with my family.

75 years as Sacramento's University 1947-2022

This work was supported by:

Grant funding from Sacramento State Division of Inclusive Excellence

*Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Sacramento State.