Steph Dean

Assistant Professor of Science Education

Office: Old Main 409F
Phone:
Email: sndean@clemson.edu
Vita: Click Here

Educational Background

Ph.D. Science Education Research
George Mason University 2022

Profile

Dr. Steph N. Dean is an Assistant Professor of Science Education within the Department of Teaching & Learning at Clemson University. She received her PhD in science education research at George Mason University with a specific focus on outdoor education. Steph uses qualitative methods to understand what it is like to teach, learn, and play within natural or built environments. With over eleven years of experience as a K-8 educator, she is highly interested in the ways that nature-based learning can be integrated into state standards within public-school settings. Although her background is formal schooling, Steph also acknowledges the importance of informal learning opportunities situated within Forest Schools, national parks, and after-school STEM programs. She enjoys traveling and often embarks on outdoor explorations seeking to find wonder near home or abroad.

Courses Taught

EDEL 4510 - Elementary Methods in Science Teaching
EDEC 4200 - Early Childhood Science

Research Interests

Outdoor environmental education
Place-based pedagogies
Holistic well-being
Play-based learning
STEM

Links