The Center of Excellence for Research, Teaching and Learning - Education and Training | Wake Forest University School of Medicine

The Center of Excellence for Research, Teaching and Learning (CERTL) at Wake Forest University School of Medicine promotes an inquiry-based model of instruction to improve the performance of K-12 students through problem- and project-based learning cases in STEM topics that motivate the acquisition of new knowledge. With a range of programs, from training educators to student mentoring, this student-driven approach creates an authentic learning environment that connects core classroom curriculum to the real world.

CERTL is a leading resource for schools and districts that want to systematically move teacher practice to include problem- and project-based learning (PBL). Our professional development is interactive and implementation focused, and our resources allow teachers to choose the problem- or project-based cases that best fit their needs.

For more than 20 years, CERTL has used PBL to improve the quality of STEM education for K-12 students. Currently, CERTL offers:

Training for K-12 teachers in PBL methodology
PBL enrichment programs for K-12 students
A library of problem- and project-based learning cases for all grade levels

To date, CERTL has trained more than 2,500 teachers across a number of states and 12 countries.

Case Repository Access

Access to CERTL’s Case Repository has transitioned to a Google Drive format that provides access to all K-12 math, science and English language arts cases. Please contact Kelsey Canovai at kdoolitt@wakehealth.edu for access.

Center Goals and Mission

CERTL helps educators discover an approach to learning that engages students and motivates them to achieve. Where traditional classrooms tend to focus on content delivery, we empower teachers to deliver an authentic learning experience to every student. In part, we do this through carefully written cases designed to draw students into the process of inquiry, combined with teacher training, to create and sustain an inquiry-based learning environment.

CERTL’s systemic approach builds instructional capacity at the campus or system level through the following activities:

Standards for quality instruction establish consistency across a system. These impact everyday instruction and allows teachers to support authentic learning experiences for students.
Inquiry-based strategies and resources, such as problem- and project-based learning (PBL) that are aligned to instructional standards, provide teachers more time to support student mastery of content.
Implementation coaching extends support and guidance for the specific challenges teachers may face when applying inquiry-based learning (IBL) methodology in their classrooms.
Leadership support focuses on enabling school and district leaders to communicate a clear, consistent instructional message as well as monitor and support its implementation.

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Research Focus Areas

Translation to Care

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The Center of Excellence for Research, Teaching and Learning Improving educational practices through professional development, student enrichment and educational leadership.

Center Goals and Mission

Our Programs

Professional Development

Best SELF

iSTEM