UNO researchers are leading a National Science Foundation-supported project to improve the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of students in STEM fields.
Published date: 12/11/2024 Contact: Sam Peshek – Strategic Marketing and Communications Department Email: unonews@unomaha.edu
➡️What’s going on?
Dr. Tracy Redding, director of research at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) STEM TRAIL Center, has been awarded the National Science Foundation ( received a $400,000 NSF research grant. – Sequential thinking skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, and analysis.
This project is a collaboration between UNO and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) that provides real-time, adaptive feedback to both students and instructors to help students develop critical cognitive skills needed for the modern workforce. We will support you to do so.
💡 Why is it important?
INSIGHTS focuses on improving problem solving, analytical thinking, and critical reasoning, with a particular emphasis on first-generation and low-income students.
Higher-order thinking skills are essential in a job market where 44% of worker skills are expected to be destroyed over the next five years, according to the Word Economic Forum’s 2023 Future of Jobs report.
This project positions Metro Omaha as a hub for STEM innovation and strengthens the pipeline of a skilled and adaptable workforce.
🧠 Think big
AI tools like INSIGHTS pave the way for a more equitable and scalable approach to STEM education.
This project has the potential to serve as a national model, providing educational institutions across the country with a roadmap to integrate AI into their education strategies.
🎤 What they are saying
“INSIGHTS positions UNO and the Omaha community as leaders in advancing STEM education on a national scale. By equipping students with critical higher-order thinking skills, we will not only meet immediate workforce needs; We are also considering and empowering the needs of our future workforce.’ This project proves how education can drive long-term economic growth and social impact,” said Dr Redding.
“This grant embodies the STEM TRAIL Center’s mission to advance human potential by combining excellence in innovation, research and education,” said Dr. Christopher Moore, UNO STEM TRAIL Center Director. states. By fostering critical thinking and work-ready skills, the project fosters both strong STEM employees and engaged citizens, promoting social mobility for students and the long-term prosperity of the Omaha region. Support our goals. ” said Mr. D.
⚡️ What’s next?
The research team will continue to improve the AI learning dashboard and collect data to expand the program, with a long-term vision of making it available to universities across the country.
About the University of Nebraska at Omaha
The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) is Nebraska’s premier metropolitan university, located in one of America’s best cities to live, work, and learn. With more than 15,000 students enrolled in more than 200 programs of study, UNO is nationally recognized for its online education, graduate education, military goodwill, and community engagement efforts. Founded in 1908, UNO has served learners of all backgrounds for more than 100 years and is dedicated to delivering the next century of excellence both in the classroom and in the community.
Follow UNO on Facebook, Twitter (X), Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
