Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning provides hands-on opportunities for K-12 teachers and students

Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning provides hands-on opportunities for K-12 teachers and students

Monday, June 9, 2025

Media Contact: Brittney Purcell | Communications Specialist | 405-744-3679 | bpurcel@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University's Center for Research on STEM Teaching and Learning (CRSTL) has supported educators for over a decade.

The center revolves around three core pillars: research, educational outreach and teacher professional development, with the goal of uplifting STEM education - its annual K-12 STEM Teacher Conference does just that.

"I want people to see CRSTL as the go-to center when they're looking for STEM education best practices and professional development," said Dr. Jennifer Cribbs, director of CRSTL.

Dr. Cribbs explained that because of OSU's land grant status, she believes the center has a responsibility to make a difference in the state through serving communities and helping teachers and students in the classroom.

The K-12 STEM Teacher Conference, to be hosted June 13, will be a resource for Oklahoma STEM educators to find community with one another. It will bring them together to share ideas and explore practical strategies for teaching STEM subjects.

To make the most of the annual teacher conference, CRSTL hosts professional development workshops during the same week. These sessions, led by experienced faculty and fellow educators, give teachers a chance to build skills and learn new strategies in their STEM classrooms during one combined visit to OSU.

Dr. Cribbs emphasized the importance of respecting teachers' time and ensuring they gain the most value from attending CRSTL's conference and workshops.

"Our annual conference almost doubled in attendance last year," said Dr. Cribbs, "I'm proud of our faculty. I'm proud of the collaboration with teachers out in the field. It's great to see that CRSTL is growing our reputation for providing these services."

The center continues to do a remarkable job building its reputation and further extending its reach in local communities.

In recent years, CRSTL began offering student engagement camps during June to provide hands-on STEM learning experiences for kids in grades K-12. Students get to engage in concentrated subjects such as coding, aviation and engineering, intending to spark long-term interest in STEM fields and build confidence in young learners.

Currently, CRSTL plans to further its outreach by using platforms such as YouTube to share teaching strategies and professional development content in a more accessible, on-demand format for educators state and nationwide.

As the center continues to grow, its mission remains clear: support educators, inspire students, and strengthen STEM education. To learn more or explore registration options, visit their website.