Using Pattern Mapping Pedagogy to Enhance STEM Multiliteracy in Undergraduate Learners

NSF Award Search · 04002526DB NSF STEM Education · $400,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Transformations in technology and global communication now require a multiliteracies pedagogy, one that uses analogy to develop cross-disciplinary, multi-modal learning. This Level 1 Engaged Student Learning project plans to introduce a STEM multiliteracies framework into the undergraduate curriculum at Florida International University. This cognitive approach to analogy suggests one reasons about a novel concept in terms of one that is already familiar, and identifying commonalities between two concepts involves recognizing they share a pattern. The project's curricular model thus leverages pattern mapping as a cognitive tool and learning strategy. Given complex worldwide issues that must be addressed by a STEM-literate public, it is crucial that students strengthen interdisciplinary competencies. Such enhancement will position them to design better integrated solutions across STEM and non-STEM fields and become more proficient in science communication. This project exposes STEM students to literacies that help them better communicate STEM concepts with multiple audiences in the future and integrates STEM with the regular curriculum of non-STEM majors. The project team will house faculty-designed modules in an open-access learning platform, where they will be freely available. The project seeks to develop, test, and disseminate a STEM multiliteracies curricular model that can be implemented across a wide range of undergraduate courses. The curricular intervention takes

Key facts

NSF award ID
2518840
Awardee
Florida International University (FL)
SAM.gov UEI
Q3KCVK5S9CP1
PI
Rhona Trauvitch
Primary program
04002526DB NSF STEM Education
All programs
Improv Undergrad STEM Ed(IUSE), UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION
Estimated total
$400,000
Funds obligated
$400,000
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028