Minjung Ryu

Minjung Ryu's initiatives have impacted the field of STEM education by addressing critical issues of diversity and inclusion, particularly for students from racially, linguistically, and culturally nondominant backgrounds. As an Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Chemistry Department at the University of Illinois Chicago, she has dedicated her career to fostering equitable learning environments in STEM disciplines. Dr. Ryu's research is centered on understanding and improving the participation of diverse students in STEM education. Her work employs innovative methodologies such as ethnography, video analysis, and multimodal multilingual discourse analysis to explore classroom discourses, language use, identity construction, and content learning interactions. This comprehensive approach allows her to gain deep insights into the educational experiences of K-16 students, with a focus on chemistry learning environments. A significant aspect of Dr. Ryu's research involves examining how language and identity intersect with learning in STEM fields. By analyzing how students from diverse backgrounds engage with STEM content, she aims to develop strategies that promote more inclusive and effective teaching practices. Her commitment to this cause is evident in her efforts to enhance science teachers' understanding of diverse students, supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF). One of Dr. Ryu's notable projects involves engaging resettled Burmese refugee youth in STEM learning. This initiative not only provides these students with valuable educational opportunities but also contributes to the broader goal of increasing diversity and representation in STEM fields. Her work in this area highlights the importance of creating supportive and inclusive educational environments for all students, regardless of their background. In addition to her research, Dr. Ryu is actively involved in the academic community, contributing to discussions on multicultural education and equity in STEM education. Her dedication to these issues has made her a respected voice in the field, and her work continues to inspire educators and researchers alike to strive for greater inclusivity in STEM education. Through her research and advocacy, Dr. Minjung Ryu is making significant strides in transforming STEM education to be more inclusive and equitable, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in these critical fields.