Dr. Polman designs and studies project-based learning environments for youth and adults in schools and community-based programs. He focuses on learning and identity development of people engaged in practices of science, literacy, history, and journalism. His research uses sociocultural lenses to focus on learning and identity development as young people participate in media construction related to their lives and communities. He seeks to identify and make accessible to young people practices from the disciplines and professions that they can find meaningful and transformative in their lives on an ongoing basis. An important goal of his research is informing the design of learning environments that involve people with powerful tools for democratic participation, in pursuing personal and civic action.
EDUC 4112 - Educational Psychology and Adolescent Development
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2021 / Fall 2022
Examines current theory and research about adolescent learning and development and explore implications for secondary teaching. Topics include human diversity as a resource for learning, adversity and agency, connecting instruction to students' everyday lives, and the role of belonging and relationships in positive youth development. This course is appropriate for masters degree students. Same as PSYC 4114 and EDUC 5112.
EDUC 8348 - Seminar: Human Development
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2018
Intensive study of selected topics in human development. The focus of the seminar will vary depending on the instructor's expertise and students' interests. Recent topics include adolescent development in social context, Vygotsky and Cultural-Historical Activity Theory, and design-based research methods. Repeatable for credit up to 6 total credit hours. Recommended prerequisite: EDUC 6318 or EDUC 8210 or instructor consent.
EDUC 8358 - Seminar: Human Learning
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021
Intensive study of selected topics in human learning.The focus of the seminar will vary depending on the instructor's expertise and students' interest. Recent topics include sociocultural and social practice theories, STEM learning in and out of school. Repeatable for credit up to 6 total credit hours. Recommended prerequisite: EDUC 6318 or EDUC 8210 or instructor consent.
PSYC 4114 - Educational Psychology and Adolescent Development
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2021
Examines current theory and research about adolescent learning and development and explore implications for secondary teaching. Topics include human diversity as a resource for learning, adversity and agency, connecting instruction to students' everyday lives, and the role of belonging and relationships in positive youth development. This course is appropriate for masters degree students. Same as EDUC 4112 and EDUC 5112.
