معرفی
Valerie Otero is a Professor of Science Education and Faculty Director of the Learning Assistant Program and PEER Physics at the University of Colorado Boulder. Her research focuses on student-centered learning environments, teacher education, and leveraging students' prior knowledge to enhance instruction. She leads initiatives such as the Learning Assistant Model, which integrates undergraduate mentorship into STEM education to improve inclusivity and outcomes.
Education:
- PhD in Physics Education, UC San Diego & San Diego State Universities (2001)
- MS in Geophysics, UC San Diego (1995)
- BS in Physics, University of New Mexico (1991)
Research Interests: Dr. Otero investigates how learning environments influence student conceptual development, particularly in physics for elementary teachers. She explores teacher conceptions of student prior knowledge and advocates for equitable science education accessible to all students. Her work includes the CPU Project (Constructing Physics Understanding) and the Physics and Everyday Thinking curriculum.
Teaching: Courses such as EDUC 5215 (Elementary Science Methods) and EDUC 5315 (Nature of Science) emphasize fostering inclusive teaching practices and empowering educators to address diverse student needs. She prioritizes curricula that align with national standards while engaging students' prior knowledge.
Programs & Impact: The Learning Assistant Model, co-developed by Dr. Otero, has been adopted nationally to improve undergraduate STEM education and teacher preparation. It emphasizes peer-led learning and faculty collaboration to create supportive, inclusive classrooms.
Labs/Teams: Central to her work are the Learning Assistant Alliance and PEER Physics initiatives, which provide resources and frameworks for implementing research-based teaching practices in physics and STEM education.
