Blog
Creating Opportunities Where STEM Learning Comes to Life
On a crisp October morning during the first day of Massachusetts STEM Week, the William Monroe Trotter K–6 School brought its spirit of curiosity and discovery to Boston University. The day started as early 70 students from the Trotter School filled the BU Wheelock lobby, joined by BU undergraduates from ED 350: Sensemaking in STEM […]
What’s Next for English Learners in the US Now that English is the Official Language?
The rights of designated English learners are primarily protected under two federal laws. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin. A landmark Supreme Court case, Lau v. Nichols, 414 U.S. 563 (1974), ruled that language is part of national origin. Therefore, public schools must provide English-language […]
Celebrating a Decade of Igniting Hearts and Minds
When curiosity meets community, magic happens—and our 10th Annual Curiosity and Learning Conference proved that in spades. This wasn’t just another educational event—it was a celebration, a milestone, and pure inspiration wrapped up in one incredible day that left everyone buzzing with new ideas and renewed passion for learning. Throughout the day, literacy wove through […]
How Big Questions Can Spark Science Learning
How do clouds float? And how do planes fly through them? Curiosity about everyday questions such as these can become a powerful catalyst for learning about science. Sensemaking in light of this uncertainty can empower students and transform classrooms into places of scientific exploration. By learning how to leverage sensemaking in light of uncertainty, educators […]
Shaping the Future of Early Childhood Research Policy
What is possible if early childhood policy researchers across Massachusetts work together to create a coordinated and aligned research collaborative? This is a question that participants discussed during the first day-long Massachusetts Early Childhood Policy Research Summit, held on April 2, 2025, at Wellesley College. Co-hosted by Boston University Wheelock College of Education & Human […]
Tackling Tough Conversations in the Classroom
For educators, having honest conversations about race and identity can be challenging to navigate. But these critical conversations can have many positive outcomes, including strengthening students’ sense of belonging and civic engagement. For this Conversations with the Dean, Dean Penny Bishop is joined by BU Wheelock’s Christina Dobbs, an associate professor of English education, and […]
Women of Wheelock: Alums Who Inspire
In celebration of Women’s History Month, we are proud to spotlight the incredible alumnae from BU Wheelock who have made significant and lasting contributions across a wide range of fields. These trailblazers, educators, activists, storytellers, and leaders embody the spirit of excellence, resilience, and innovation that define BU Wheelock. From advocating for social justice and […]
Lucy Wheelock’s Legacy Resonates During Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month is the perfect time to reflect on the many trailblazing women who have shaped the world around us. At Boston University, Wheelock College of Education & Human Development carries with it a unique history—one rooted in the vision of Lucy Wheelock, a powerful advocate for education. Lucy Wheelock’s legacy resonates deeply with […]
The Impact of Racism in the Early Years
While much of what we know about racism is from the vantage point of adults, not children, a new supplemental issue of a top early childhood research journal, Early Childhood Research Quarterly (ECRQ), aims to raise awareness—among researchers, policymakers, advocates, and health and education practitioners—about the effects of racism on the development of infants, toddlers, […]
Higher Education at a Crossroads
In an era of scrutiny and skepticism, American higher education faces many challenges – political threats to elite institutions, economic dilemmas for most of the rest, and deep concerns among those who learn, teach, and work in our universities. These challenges suggest that new qualities of leadership may be needed in higher education, as well […]