Mission
The Mathematics and Science Education Center (MSEC) cultivates and sustains vibrant and innovative collaborations and scholarly investigations with partners in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education fields, leading to improved teaching and learning at P-20 levels, advocacy for broader participation, and lifelong learning for community members.
History
The Appalachian State University Mathematics and Science Education Center came into existence in early 1985 as one of the centers in the North Carolina Mathematics and Science Education Network (NC-MSEN). Although the network no longer exists, the MSEC continues to provide leadership in the northwestern part of the state in science-technology-engineering-mathematics (STEM) education. The goals of the center are to:
- Increase the quality and quantity of STEM teachers in North Carolina Public Schools;
- Strengthen instruction in STEM fields in grades K-12 and post-secondary levels;
- Promote scholarly and engagement collaborations in STEM Education; and
- Increase the equitable use of STEM and educational technology in schools.
Center activities are guided by classroom instructors’ needs and timely scholarly inquiries, largely informed by partners and collaborating educators. The MSEC offers workshops, summer programming, and other activities that enrich learning in the region and provide renewal credits to teachers. Northwestern North Carolina is the primary service area of the MSEC, but programs engage teachers and participants from across the United States and internationally.