Alan Shaw, associate professor and associate chair of the Computer Science department at Kennesaw State University, is making waves in educational technology. His groundbreaking work aims to empower underrepresented students in STEM fields.
Innovative Approach to STEM Education
Shaw’s passion for broadening the pipeline for students of color in academia drives his innovative projects. He believes in making math accessible to all students, regardless of their background.
“We need solutions to bring the numbers up, to give all kids a chance who want to succeed in these STEM-related fields,” Shaw explains. His approach involves integrating technology into classrooms to help students achieve more.
Calculus for All: Breaking Down Barriers
In 2023, Shaw and his colleagues secured a $2.5 million National Science Foundation grant for their “Calculus for All” project. This initiative aims to introduce calculus concepts to high school students earlier in their academic careers.
“Calculus is poorly taught in general, and most kids struggle with it,” Shaw notes. “But in order to go into STEM fields like computer science, kids need to pass calculus.” The project specifically addresses systemic barriers and racial equity in STEM education.
Technology as a Tool for Engagement
Shaw’s work is heavily influenced by the theory of social constructivism. He believes that technology can make learning more tangible and exciting for students.
“I’ve found that kids love it when math helps them program a video game or control a turtle moving around a screen,” Shaw shares. “They get excited with technology. We see how kids love their phones and their ability to communicate with technology. We have tools that excite kids. We just need to use them.”
A Legacy of Breaking Barriers
Born during the Civil Rights movement, Shaw’s journey is deeply rooted in a family legacy of academic excellence. His father, Earl Shaw, was one of the nation’s first black physicists and is credited with inventing new laser technology.
Shaw’s own academic path includes degrees from Harvard University and MIT. During his time at Harvard, he served as the president of the Black Student Association.
Impacting Communities Beyond the Classroom
Shaw’s vision extends beyond the classroom. He aims to use educational tools for social programs in communities.
“My thesis was about taking educational tools into communities to use for social programs,” Shaw explains. “Kids aren’t helped when you think of learning as something that’s passive. I’m showing how technology can help neighbors in a poor community overcome poverty.”
The Future of STEM Education at KSU
Sumanth Yenduri, dean of KSU’s College of Computing and Software Engineering, praises Shaw’s work: “Dr. Shaw’s work is truly transformative. His passion and drive for computing education has earned him great success with federal agencies.”
Shaw remains optimistic about the future of STEM education at KSU. “Here at KSU, I believe we are making great strides toward helping students succeed no matter what their background is or who they are,” he concludes.
