معرفی
Steven Anderson is a Professor of Earth Science in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Northern Colorado, part of the College of Natural and Health Sciences. He also serves as the Director of the Mathematics and Science Teaching (MAST) Institute, where he leads initiatives to improve STEM education through research, outreach, and policy advocacy.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Geology, Arizona State University
- M.S. in Geology, Arizona State University
- B.S. in Geology, Cornell College
Dr. Anderson's research spans two primary areas: the study of active and ancient lava flow surfaces to understand volcanic behavior on Earth and other planets, and the investigation of teaching and learning in introductory geoscience courses. His work in planetary volcanology has been supported by both the National Science Foundation (NSF) and NASA, enabling research on lava flows on Mars and Venus. He is renowned for co-developing the Geoscience Concept Inventory, a widely adopted tool for assessing student understanding in Earth sciences.
His recent publications reflect a strong interdisciplinary focus, combining field observations, remote sensing, and educational research. The articles show trends in lava flow dynamics, volcanic hazard prediction, and the cognitive aspects of geoscience learning. His work bridges physical geology with science education, contributing significantly to both planetary science and pedagogical innovation.
Scientific Awards:
- EPA’s Outstanding Achievement Award for Environmental Education
Dr. Anderson has secured multiple NSF grants to support his research and has involved both undergraduate and graduate students in fieldwork across Hawaii, Peru, Chile, and the western United States. He has also taught international field courses through programs such as Semester at Sea. His leadership roles include serving as Chair of the Science Department at Black Hills State University and Director of the MAST Institute at UNC. He actively promotes STEM equity through programs like Frontiers of Science, Longs Peak Science Fair, and STEMspire, which support underrepresented students in science.
He is involved in public science communication, having appeared on the BBC’s Volcano Live, and continues to integrate research with education through media and outreach.
