Michael Svec

Michael Svec serves as Professor of Education in the Education Department at Furman University, teaching science methods courses at all levels, international comparative education, culture and identity in schooling, and graduate courses on American school culture. He coordinates the science education interdisciplinary minor and leads international May X travel programs.

Education:

• Ph.D., Indiana University-Bloomington
• B.S., University of Illinois-Urbana

Research Interests: His scholarship focuses on physics and astronomy education, history of astronomy, and K-12 inquiry-based learning, with strong emphasis on cultural identity, international comparisons, and equitable teacher preparation. He bridges science pedagogy with social justice frameworks and democratic educational practices.

Publication Trends: Recent works (2007-2023) examine elementary science instruction, mobile technology in project-based learning, and preparing privileged teachers for diverse classrooms. His international collaborations, particularly with Czech institutions, highlight comparative science teacher training and cultural dimensions of education.

Scientific Awards:

• Fulbright Scholar to Czech Republic (2005)
• President of Southeastern Association for Science Teacher Education
• Director of American Friends of the Czech Republic
• Delegate of Hanban/Confucius Institute

Professional Leadership: As Fulbright Scholar, he taught at Ostrava and Palacky Universities while developing international partnerships. He directs the science education minor and coordinates cross-cultural travel programs, with research supported by Fulbright and international educational grants.