Keith Oliver

Dr. Keith Oliver is an Associate Professor of Physics at the Department of Physics, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, Grand Valley State University. He holds a Ph.D. from Ohio State University (2003) and a B.S. from Utah State University (1999). His academic career at GVSU spans from Assistant Professor (2003-2009) to his current role as Associate Professor.

• Education:
  • Ph.D., Ohio State University, 2003
  • B.S., Utah State University, 1999

Dr. Oliver's research focuses on physics education, investigating how teaching methods impact student learning and cognitive skill development. His work explores the hidden curriculum in physics classrooms, particularly examining epistemological frameworks (how knowledge is acquired), ontological perspectives (what constitutes physics concepts), and societal factors like gender roles in STEM education.

He has mentored undergraduate researchers on projects such as:

• "Development and Assessment of Materials which help students Apply concepts of Energy Conservation and Entropy" (Tim Steenwyk, 2006)
• "A Comparative Study of the Effects of Teaching Techniques on Student Learning During Lessons in Geometrical Optics" (Brandon Branch, 2006)

Dr. Oliver contributes to educational programs through courses like:

• SCI 226, PHY 201, PHY 204 (General Education & Future Elementary Teachers)
• PHY 601, PHY 610, PHY 620, PHY 660 (Masters of Education Physics Emphasis)