This faculty book group centers a concise, research-informed guide that offers quick, low-lift strategies you can implement without redesigning your course. We’ll discuss practical moves—framing assignments, modeling study approaches, building transparent expectations—that improve outcomes for first-gen and other historically underrepresented students in STEM, with takeaways adaptable across disciplines. Space is capped at 13 participants, and each participant will receive a complimentary copy of the book.
REGISTER NOW
About the Book: “Teaching STEM to First-Generation College Students”
Do you ever feel like more and more of your students come to your classroom not knowing how to study or what to do in order to be successful in your class? Some students come to college knowing the ropes, knowing what it takes to be successful as STEM students. But many do not. Research shows that students who are the first-generation in their family to attend or complete college are likely to arrive at your classroom not knowing what it takes to be successful. And data shows that more first-generation students are likely to be arriving on your doorstep in the near future. What can you do to help these students be successful?
This book can provide you with some research based methods that are quick, easy, and effortless. These are steps that you can take to help first-generation college students succeed without having to change the way you teach.
Book club meeting schedule
The book club will meet remotely over the lunch hour 12:00–1:00 PM every two weeks throughout Fall term, on October 17, Oct 31, Nov. 14, and December 5. Once you have registered, you will receive a Google Calendar invite for all meetings with the Zoom link.
Enjoy your complimentary book!
Stop by the Office of Academic Innovation before October 17th to get your own copy of the book! Note: OAI is temporarily located in Vanport, 1810 SW 5th Ave suite 560, Portland, OR 97201.
Meet your facilitator
Kendra Woodstead
Teaching and Pedagogical Support Specialist
Kendra Woodstead attended North Dakota State University for her bachelor’s degree in Management Communication and her master’s degree in Educational Leadership in Higher Education. She is most passionate about motivation theory, communication, adult education, trauma-informed pedagogy, and accessible education. She believes strongly in the opportunities for higher education to empower and support students in their lives and learning experiences.
Kendra has worked in higher education since her first year in undergrad, starting as a student aide in the Enrollment Management Office, next as a resident assistant, an orientation leader, and as the New Student Programs intern. After college, she worked in a teacher education department doing assessment and program planning. During grad school, she was the Graduate Assistant Hall Director for the Covid-19 isolation housing, and prior to starting at PSU was the Curriculum and Assessment Coordinator for the School of Education at NDSU. Kendra is an enthusiastic member of the OAI team, who enjoys contributing to student success through supporting faculty and their teaching!
Who should attend
PSU faculty from any STEM-related discipline. Advisors and staff are welcome. No prior background in STEM pedagogy or student success research required—just curiosity and a commitment to inclusive teaching.
The Office of Academic Innovation is committed to making our events accessible to all Portland State University faculty and staff. If you require an accommodation or service to participate, please contact us at oai@pdx.edu.
Contact us with any questions!
If you need assistance getting into our event or have any questions, please contact the Office of Academic Innovation front desk at oai@pdx.edu.