Understanding the Spread of Research-Based Instructional Strategies: A Case Study of SCALE-UP

Secondary implementations of research-based instructional strategies are often non-trivial and can be met with challenges. This talk will focus on lessons learned from a case study of the secondary implementations of Student-Centered Active Learning Environment with Upside-Down Pedagogies (SCALE-UP). SCALE-UP, which started in the physics department of North Carolina State University, is now used across disciplines and at institutes throughout the world. We have examined how SCALE-UP has spread within departments, between departments, and across universities. Both qualitative and quantitative data provide explanation on what has helped and hindered the spread of SCALE-UP at these various levels. We will focus on implications for faculty interested in introducing new instructional strategies at their institution.