Laura Lowder
Dr. Laura Lowder serves as Associate Professor of Education at Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer, NC where she facilitates the preparation of the next generation of elementary science teachers. Laura teaches preservice teachers across all education majors with a focus in elementary science, technology, and math methods. Her recent research interests focus on the use of collaborative tech tools to connect learners with content experts from across the globe, blogging with preservice teachers in the math classroom, and building STEM interest and efficacy among at-risk K-12 learners.
In addition to her University teaching and scholarship, Laura's service initiatives have built a robust community STEM education program in collaboration with the Divisions of Education and Arts and Sciences at Pfeiffer, the Departments of Life and Physical Sciences and eLearning Design at Stanly Community College, as well as Stanly and Montgomery County Schools. These collaborations bring together leaders across STEM fields to provide opportunities for K-12 children to experience and learn about STEM content as they connect with experts from their communities. Dr. Lowder's STEM programming also includes a variety of opportunities for beginning teachers, preservice teachers, and career teachers to come together and engage in professional development, book studies, as well as to collaboratively design and implement STEM summer camps on campus and across public schools Stanly and Montgomery Counties.
Laura is pleased to serve on the NCSTA Board as the university liaison for preservice and beginning teachers where she hopes her connections in the field will allow her to reach out and encourage the participation of STEM teachers and K-12 preservice teachers to come together for networking and idea-sharing at the fall conference.
