Santa Clara University

Stephen Carroll’s current projects focus on intersections of pedagogy, technology, assessment, writing, and learning. He is the Director of Core Writing and Co-Director of the Professional Writing Program. He is intimately involved in SCU’s efforts to develop and implement the new core curriculum, serving as a member of the Critical Thinking and Writing Committee and as a consultant to the assessment team. He has developed and taught a number of experimental, cross-disciplinary pilot courses for the new core to explore new ways to enhance student learning and to expand the range of types of courses offered. He moonlights as a science writer for the National Science Foundation, having recently completed two reports on their Undergraduate Research Centers/Collaboratives project. His strong background in information technology stems from many years in the corporate world, where he served as a computer operations manager, help desk manager and technical training manager.

Dr. Carroll’s current research concentrates on how people learn. In addition to his work revamping the Student Assessment of their Learning Gains (SALG) instrument and website, he is investigating using course-specific writing practica to enhance learning in the sciences. His book, Science Education and Civic Engagement: The SENCER Approach, focuses on how to use assessment practices to drive innovation in teaching and learning and on leveraging existing technologies to enhance communication and accelerate learning, especially in undergraduate learning communities.