Researchers at Texas State University receive NIH grant to enhance student autonomy in science education

Carlton Fong, Ph.D., an Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, along with Kristy Daniel, Ph.D., has secured a grant of over $3.2 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS). The purpose of this grant is to support the learning of more than 2,000 undergraduate students in science-related classes. This five-year grant includes a sub-award of $591,652 to Texas State University. The project is part of a larger initiative called “Supporting Student Agency in Undergraduate Biomedical Education.”

The main goal of this project is to study whether specific interventions that encourage student agency and engagement can help underrepresented undergraduate students achieve long-term success in science courses. Erika Patall, Ph.D., from the University of Southern California, is the principal investigator of this project. Carlton J. Fong, Ph.D., and Kristy Daniel, Ph.D., will be serving as the site investigators for Texas State University.

The research project aims to explore how targeted interventions can impact student learning outcomes and engagement in science classes. By understanding the factors that contribute to the success of underrepresented undergraduate students in science courses, the project aims to develop strategies that can support these students throughout their academic journey. With a focus on fostering student agency and empowerment, this project hopes to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.