Science Education Hub

Overview

The SDU Science Education Hub is an innovative platform that aims to foster collaboration, inspire creativity, and provide ongoing competence development opportunities for faculty and staff within the Faculty of Science at SDU. By bringing together educators, researchers, and practice partners, the Hub will serve as a central resource for advancing science education and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The Science Education Hub will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of STEM education at SDU by facilitating project collaborations, offering networking opportunities, and providing a space for the exchange of ideas and best practices.

Mission

The mission of the SDU Science Education Hub is to catalyze excellence in STEM education across the Faculty of Science by promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, supporting educational innovation, and fostering professional development. The Hub will serve as a bridge between departments, connecting educators and researchers with resources, networks, and opportunities that drive educational advancements and address the challenges of modern STEM education.

Synergy with USE Programme

The SDU Science Education Hub is strategically aligned with the University Science Education (USE) programme funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation, a large-scale initiative dedicated to transforming science education across Denmark. By integrating the research insights and educational innovations generated by this 200 million (DKK), 8-year programme, the Hub will enhance the practical application of cutting-edge science education practices at SDU. This synergy will enable the Hub to serve as a testing ground for validating and refining the strategies developed through USE, thereby amplifying the impact of both initiatives. Moreover, it positions SDU as a leader in supporting and advancing the practical application of research-driven educational development and reform.

Collaboration and Networking

The SDU Science Education Hub is based on the intersection of three partners; 

• STEM Education Research Center – FNUG
• SDU Centre for Teaching and Learning, SDU UP
• The Educations at The Faculty of Science, NAT 

 The Hub is hereby designed to bring together faculty members, researchers, students, and external partners to create a dynamic and collaborative environment. The Hub will facilitate networking opportunities, encourage cross-disciplinary collaborations, and inspire the exchange of ideas and experiences that can lead to innovative educational practices and research projects. By fostering a culture of collaboration, the Hub will help to break down silos and promote a more integrated approach to STEM education at SDU.

Competence Development and Inspiration

A core focus of the SDU Science Education Hub is to provide ongoing professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. Through workshops, seminars, and informal gatherings, the Hub will offer a range of activities aimed at enhancing teaching skills, expanding knowledge of cutting-edge STEM education practices, and fostering innovation in the classroom, field and laboratory. The Hub will also serve as a source of inspiration, encouraging educators to explore new ideas and approaches to teaching and learning.

Call to Action

We invite the four departments within the Faculty of Science to actively support the SDU Science Education Hub. By contributing resources, expertise, and collaborative efforts, each department can play a key role in shaping the future of science education at SDU. Together, we can create a vibrant and supportive community that empowers educators, inspires students, and drives innovation in science education.

Organizing Committee

The SDU Science Education Hub will be guided by an organizing committee comprised of representatives from each department within the Faculty of Science. This committee will provide strategic direction, ensure alignment with faculty goals, and oversee the implementation of Hub activities.

Contact Information

For more information about the SDU Science Education Hub or to get involved, please contact:
Connie Svabo, Professor, STEM Education Research Center – FNUG, SDU
svabo@imada.sdu.dk
Poul Nielsen, Vice-dean for Education, Faculty of Science, SDU
pouln@sdu.dk

By supporting the SDU Science Education Hub, we can collectively enhance the quality and impact of science education at SDU, preparing our students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.