Dr. Beth Simmons

Dr. Beth Simmons is an Assistant Professor with an appointment in the FIUteach program at the STEM Transformation Institute at Florida International University. Her diverse experiences in education encompass secondary STEM, international scientific research in Antarctica, education outreach, as well as coordinating and teaching within undergraduate and graduate level experiences.

Dr. Simmons’ research focuses on expanding the potential for engagement as it relates to cognitive science, human intellect and learning in STEM. She explores the pedagogy, practices and processes in STEM that transcend disciplinary boundaries. Her work is strongly influenced by the indicators of engagement formulated by the National Survey on Student Engagement and inquiry-based learning by examining the correlations between engagement in STEM and opportunities for students to develop deeper learning competencies. With strengths in instructional design Dr. Simmons cultivates experiential learning opportunities that lie at the intersection of all four STEM disciplines, capitalizing on designing experiences that build the skills and dispositions necessary for students to tackle the global challenges and flourish in a complex world.

Education

•  Ed.D Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, Leadership, Northeastern University, Boston
• MA Curriculum and Instructional Design, University of California, San Diego
• BS Biology, Minor Secondary Education, Stonehill College, Massachusetts