Dr. Neil Knobloch, professor, and Dr. Hui-Hui Wang, associate professor, received the 2024 Christian J. Foster Award from the Purdue Office of Engagement.
The award recognizes their contributions to K-12 science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education in Indiana. Knobloch and Wang have provided professional development opportunities for high school teachers in 13 Indiana public high schools. In turn, those teachers have reached 7,500 students with STEM content in agriculture, food, and natural resources.
“Our work in K-12 engagement connects future STEM professionals and leaders to the 21st Century Land-Grant University,” Knobloch said.
Drs. Hui-Hui Wang (left) and Neil Knobloch were recognized for their work that contributes to K-12 STEM education by using agriculture, food, and natural resources as a context for interdisciplinary teaching and learning. Their work contributes to advancing STEM by positioning agriculture, food, and natural resources (AFNR) as a dynamic and authentic context for interdisciplinary teaching and learning. They have explored how AFNR can powerfully integrate STEM teaching and offer students opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving.
Their research and outreach provide theoretical grounding, practical tools, and empirical insights that support the design and implementation of meaningful, context-rich STEM education in K–12 settings.
“Integrated STEM in K-12 is important because real-world problems, such as climate change, and food security are inherently interdisciplinary,” Wang said. “This approach helps students develop deeper understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills by connecting STEM knowledge and applying them in a meaningful way.”
