RUME 26
2024
Omaha, Nebraska
Faculty Perceptions of Making Connections: A Story of Obligations and Constraints
Page: 99
Mathematics is central to STEM coursework, yet limited research has examined how instructors in math and other STEM courses facilitate connections between courses for their students. Based on four focus group meetings with ten faculty members, we characterize factors that assist or hinder making connections between courses and examine their relationship to professional obligations. Results include the largely negative impact of institutional obligations on faculty’s willingness and ability to make connections. Implications include the need for institutions to give opportunities to make personal connections across departments and incentivize the development of connections.