Featured Post from University of Delaware

Exploring the Link Between Student Engagement and Deeper Learning

Apr 22, 2024

1 min

When students are engaged in their learning, they are more likely to dive deeper into the material. This is because they are actively participating in the process, asking questions, and seeking out answers.

This is a concept that was recently explored by Amanda Jansen, a University of Delaware professor in the College of Education and Human Development.

With attention to teachers’ first-person narratives and reflections, her study offers educators a model for understanding student engagement so that they can better facilitate deeper learning in their classrooms.

Funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), it was found that the majority of the teachers in Jansen’s study understood the primary function of student engagement to be deeper learning about a mathematics concept rather than classroom performance. These teachers talked more about engagement in terms of cognitive, affective and social processes, and they often spoke about more than one dimension.

Jansen also emphasizes that how educators ask students to be engaged often reveals helpful information about educators’ instructional practices and their own assumptions. It can also send a message to students about their role in the learning process.

These more engaged students are more likely to analyze and evaluate information, rather than just passively accepting it. This higher level of thinking leads to a deeper understanding of the material and allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.

To speak to Jansen about the study and its impact, click her "View Profile" button.

Connect with:

Amanda Jansen

Distinguished Professor of Teacher Education, School of Education

Prof. Jansen conducts research on mathematics teaching practices that support students' motivation and engagement.

Mathematics EducationTeacher EducationStudent MotivationStudent EngagementRough Draft Math

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1 min

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The University of Delaware’s Kalmia Kniel can discuss foodborne parasites and food safety risks, including the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak spreading across the United States. Kniel, a professor of microbial food safety, can explain how foodborne parasites spread, why outbreaks (particularly those involving the Cyclospora parasite) can be challenging to investigate and what consumers should know about reducing their risk of illness. She co-authored a study published in December 2025 that examined challenges researchers face in detecting, studying and controlling Cyclospora cayetanensis, including gaps in understanding the parasite and improving prevention strategies. Kniel can also discuss why fresh produce and water are often a focus during investigations and the steps consumers can take to improve food safety. Kniel’s expertise includes: • Foodborne parasites and illness outbreaks • Produce and microbial food safety • Food contamination and prevention • Food safety research Kniel discussed the biology of this specific pathogen in detail at a recent presentation on cyclospora. To arrange an interview with Kniel, visit her profile page and click the contact button. Interested journalists can else email MediaRelations@udel.edu.