Teaching STEM Courses using Ignatian Pedagogy

Abstract: Despite the impact of the Jesuit educational endeavor on the rise of science, the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm (IPP), the signature Jesuit pedagogy, is not frequently used to teach courses in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and very little literature exists documenting any such attempts. In this paper, I describe a framework for how to apply the IPP to STEM courses using active-engagement strategies and assessment tools from disciplinary educational research (DBER). I provide three examples of how I have implemented the IPP in physics courses at various levels in the curriculum at a Jesuit University complete with assessment results that demonstrate student learning. I stress that beyond the technical, cyclical elements of the IPP, a truly Ignatian course needs to pay close attention to Jesuit charisms such as cura personalis, magis, and educating men and women with and for others.