Active Learning in STEM with PhET Interactive Simulations Specialization

The University of Colorado Boulder, founded in 1876 and set against the Rocky Mountains, is a major research university serving more than 37,000 students with nearly 3,000 international learners. CU Boulder is recognized for academic excellence, expansive research programs and a sustainability-driven campus culture. Students benefit from an array of undergraduate, graduate and professional offerings that encourage innovation across science, engineering, business, arts and humanities.

Research, entrepreneurship and experiential learning are central to the CU Boulder experience, with extensive laboratory facilities, innovation labs and co-op or internship pathways that connect students to industry and civic partners. The university supports cross-disciplinary projects and provides robust advising, career services and student organizations that help translate academic interests into practical outcomes and start-up ventures.

Boulder's outdoor lifestyle and proximity to tech hubs create strong opportunities for networking, recreation and balanced living. International students are supported by dedicated offices for admissions, orientation and visa guidance, making the transition smoother. With a large program portfolio and a campus culture that values sustainability, creativity and collaboration, CU Boulder is well suited to students seeking high-impact research experiences and an active campus community.

The Active Learning in STEM with PhET Interactive Simulations Specialization is a non-degree program offered by the University of Colorado Boulder. It's designed for educators who want to enhance learning in math and science, and it's taught in English. The program can be completed in about 8 weeks and helps students develop skills in active learning strategies and simulation-based lesson planning.

The curriculum covers topics like active learning strategies, simulation-based lesson planning, and evaluating the effectiveness of learning experiences. Students will learn how to incorporate PhET Interactive Simulations into their teaching practices, and they'll develop skills in areas like classroom implementation and lesson design. The program includes four courses that focus on introducing PhET simulations, designing whole-class activities, creating interactive simulations, and implementing PhET activities in the classroom.

After completing this program, students can pursue careers as science teachers, math teachers, or educational technology specialists. They might work in schools, universities, or educational institutions, and they could be employed by organizations like the National Science Foundation or the Department of Education. Other potential job titles include curriculum developer, instructional coach, or education researcher, and students might also go on to work in fields like educational software development or academic publishing.