Upcoming Seminar: Teaching Science Through Reading, Rhyme, and Reason

The Department of Biology is pleased to host a seminar presented by Dr. Meena Balgopal, Professor in the Department of Biology at Colorado State University. Dr. Balgopal will deliver a talk titled “Teaching Science Through Reading, Rhyme, and Reason”

This seminar will explore innovative pedagogical strategies that integrate literacy and creative expression into science education. Dr. Balgopal will share research-based insights on how reading and rhyming can enhance conceptual understanding and retention among students.

Event Details
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Biology Building, Room 136

All faculty, students, and staff are encouraged to attend.

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Abstract
Undergraduate students learn through listening, discussing, engaging in problem-solving exercises, analyzing data, and asking questions. While reading and writing are also integrated into curricula, they are not always accompanied by pedagogical support. Yet, because scientific practices rely on disciplinary literacies, it is critical for early career scientists to develop these competencies, which likely explain their course performance. I will present some of my current research on reading-to-learn and graphical literacy that build on my writing-to-learn work, describing how guided intervention affect students’ motivation, confidence, and competencies in reading scientific literature.