Nagma Zerin, lecturer in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, was named the William R. Kenan, Jr. Scholar/Teacher, effective Jan. 1, 2024.
“(Zerin) has an interest in pedagogical research areas, which aim to improve the learning experiences of chemical and biomolecular engineering undergraduates,” said Whiting School of Engineering Dean Ed Schlesinger in an announcement Dec. 7. “Her efforts have had an impact on long-term student outcomes, including retention in the major and preparation for the job market.”
Zerin’s winning proposal outlined plans to use the two-year award funding to expand her research into strategies to promote students’ growth mindset and to support inclusive classroom environments. Her findings show potential for application of these piloted strategies beyond her classroom to others both nationally and internationally.
Zerin recently presented her research at the annual conferences of the American Society of Engineering Education and the American Institute of Chemical Engineers. She was featured in Faculty Forward Magazine in 2022.
The William R. Kenan, Jr. Fund was established to stimulate the adoption of sound innovative teaching methods, particularly in undergraduate education. The Whiting School has re-envisioned this program to help teaching and tenure-track faculty members pursue research in engineering education. Faculty members interested in the fund were invited to submit proposals for projects that would provide long-term benefits to the quality and effectiveness of undergraduate teaching.