The Center for Excellence in STEM Education, in partnership with Teaching and Learning Commons, will welcome world-renowned author, educator and activist, Sheila Tobias, to campus for a public lecture Nov. 4 at 6 p.m. in the Erickson Alumni Center Ballroom. A book signing will follow the interactive discussion, which is a part of the Office of the Provost’s Dan and Betsy Brown Lecture Series.
Coining the term “math anxiety” nearly four decades ago, Dr. Tobias is known as a pioneer in her work to change the culture of teaching math and science to build a stronger pipeline in related fields.
“As WVU continues to focus on innovative ways that encourage West Virginia students to pursue and stay in STEM fields, Sheila’s visit to campus serves as an opportunity to bring together WVU faculty, staff, students and community members to talk about how we break down barriers that stand in students’ way of studying STEM fields,” said Gay Stewart, director of CE-STEM. “I am beyond excited to welcome an old friend and mentor to WVU.”
A longtime advocate for math and science education, Tobias has dedicated her life’s work to asking and re-asking what makes math and science “hard?” Passionate about both feminism and science, and specializing in science and math accessibility especially for women, she has introduced curricular innovations ranging from the first women's studies program in the country to supporting the development of professional master's degree programs in math and science.
Her first book, “Overcoming Math Anxiety,” became a bestseller and the term “math anxiety” became part of our national conversation about math education. Among her other books are “Succeed with Math;” “Breaking the Science Barrier;” “They’re not Dumb, They’re Different: Stalking the Second Tier;” “Revitalizing Undergraduate Science;” “Rethinking Science as a Career;” and “Banishing Math Anxiety.”
During her visit, Tobias will also meet with math educators, engineering students, Women’s and Gender Studies advocates and other administrative leaders across campus.