Welcome to the CiSTEMer

Here at CiSTEMer, we believe that STEM education should be done differently. That’s why we’ve invested in various research initiatives, student-led math literacy programs, and conferences that challenge the traditional methodologies of Education. We believe that each of these projects will push the boundaries of the institutional limitations that have been set by previous generations. We believe in a future that allows students to have a voice and agency into what their education entails. And most importantly, we believe that our collaborative efforts can truly make a difference. Explore the website to learn more about our youth math literacy work, conferences, and funded research projects. If you are interested in becoming a partner organization, please contact us at cistemer@kennesaw.edu. 

About Us

The Center for Innovation in STEM Education Research (CiSTEMer) promotes and supports faculty and community collaborations to conduct pure and applied research in undergraduate and K–12 STEM education. Directed and founded by Dr. Brian Lawler, CiSTEMer works closely with forward-thinking organizations and collaborators in order to push the boundaries of what is possible for a 21st Century mathematics education. This involves advancing youth math literacy efforts, led by Quincy Dawson; providing opportunities for KSU students to serve as collaborators on research projects; and pushing for the professional development of teachers in neighboring school districts. 

CiSTEMer Staff

  • Brian Lawler

    Dr. Brian R. Lawler is an associate professor of mathematics education in the Bagwell College of Education and currently serves as director of the Center for Innovation in STEM Education Research.Dr. Lawler's scholarship focuses on equity issues in mathematics  education, in particular the ways in which power and knowledge intertwine to govern the learner's mathematical identity. This interest leads him to seek to understand the ways such students make sense of the school, classroom, and teacher contexts, and how these knowings may interact with their mathematical identities.

    During his 25+ year career as a mathematics educator, he has supported teachers, schools, and districts to de-track mathematics instruction and transform teaching practices. 

  • Quincy Dawson

    As the Director of Youth Math Literacy Initiatives for CiSTEMer, Quincy Dawson currently works with high school and college students throughout the area to develop their mathematical literacy efforts. Since beginning his journey in the Education field, Quincy has been striving to develop leaders through STEM education, and he has done it through many avenues. He has worked with students as a high school Physics teacher in public, independent, charter and homeschool settings; worked with STEM teachers as an instructional coach; and has also developed STEM programs as an education specialist, curriculum writer, and a math-based Summer program director. Through this experience, Quincy has used his expertise to continue to empower students to take charge of their education and become the next generation of leaders.