Troy D. Sadler

Roles and Affiliations: Troy D. Sadler is the Thomas James Distinguished Professor of Experiential Learning at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's School of Education. He holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of South Florida (2003) and has over 20 years of experience in science education and teacher training. His academic journey includes roles at institutions such as the University of Missouri and the University of Florida.

Education Background:

• Ph.D. in Curriculum & Instruction (Science Education), University of South Florida (2003)
• M.Ed. in Science Education, University of Florida (1997)
• B.S. in Biology, University of Miami (1994)

Research Interests: Sadler focuses on socio-scientific issues (SSI) in education, experiential learning, science teacher development, and the integration of innovative technologies like gaming and virtual environments. He emphasizes science education's role in fostering critical thinking and ethical decision-making. His work explores how issues-based learning supports scientific literacy and democratic participation.

Key Contributions:

• Developed the SIMBL (Socio-Scientific Issue and Model-Based Learning) framework
• Designed curricula integrating computational thinking and SSI
• Advanced the use of virtual environments (e.g., Mission HydroSci) for NGSS-aligned learning

Grants and Awards:

• Recipient of NSF grants for projects like Mission HydroSci and computational thinking integration
• 2019 Thomas James Distinguished Professorship
• Early Career Research Award (2009), Teaching Excellence Awards (2005, 2003), and numerous editorial roles

Labs/Teams: Director of the ReSTEM Institute at the University of Missouri (2011–2018) and the MU Science Education Center. Current leadership in the UNC School of Education's CCTE and LSPS departments.