Dr. Vashti Sawtelle Named APS Fellow for Contributions to Physics Education
The Physics Education Research Lab (PERL) at Michigan State University is thrilled to announce that Dr. Vashti Sawtelle, a faculty member in Lyman Briggs College and the Department of Physics and Astronomy, has been named an APS Fellow. She was recognized by the American Physical Society “for foundational research on self-efficacy, introductory physics for life sciences, and community college student persistence; for broadening participation and promoting engagement among all physics students; and for enduring contributions to the rigorous use of qualitative methods.”
As co-director of PERL, Dr. Sawtelle leads groundbreaking research into how educational environments influence students’ physics learning experiences, especially for those from historically underrepresented backgrounds. Her National Science Foundation-supported work focuses on understanding the challenges faced by community college students transitioning to four-year universities and on fostering inclusive physics classrooms. Her research also delves into how students develop self-efficacy and a strong sense of identity in science, which is closely tied to issues of equity in the field.
Dr. Sawtelle’s commitment to inclusive teaching is evident in her introductory physics courses at Lyman Briggs College, where she brings her research to life by creating supportive learning communities, particularly for life sciences majors. Over the years, her work at MSU has been recognized with multiple awards, including the Teacher-Scholar Award and the AT&T Teaching with Technology Award, underscoring her dedication to advancing physics education.
This APS Fellowship acknowledges Dr. Sawtelle’s inspiring contributions to both research and teaching, reflecting her leadership within the physics education community.
