In the context of higher education, centers are “a place at which an activity or complex of activities is carried on; a place from which ideas, influences emanate; and a place to which many people are attracted.” (Webster’s New World Dictionary, 1991). The School of Education is affiliated with two centers including the Center for the Advancement of Math and Science Education (CAMSE) and the Teacher Learning Center. Centers such as these expand the capacity of the college for research and service. Read further to learn of the remarkable array of research and service activities of the faculty, staff, students, and administrators who work in these centers.

Science Math - CAMSE 
The mission of the Center for the Advancement of Mathematics and Science Education (CAMSE) is to promote effective and meaningful teaching and learning of science and mathematics at all levels. Areas of emphasis include the preparation of future teachers; support of teachers already in the field through professional development in math and science content and innovative teaching strategies; and research on the teaching and learning of math and science.

Math & Science Partnership - Project Prime
Project PRIME (Promoting Reflective Inquiry in Mathematics Education) is a five-year, targeted Mathematics and Science Partnership (MSP) project aimed at improving the academic achievement of all students in the Rapid City Area Schools. This grant will focus, in particular, on reducing the achievement gap between Native American and non-Native American students. In addition, the project will improve the professional capacity of all mathematics teachers in the Rapid City Area Schools and all student teachers of mathematics from Black Hills State University.

Teacher Learning Center
Black Hills State University has developed a partnership between the Black Hills Special Services Cooperative, Spearfish School District, and the South Dakota Department of Education to provide a school-based learning environment for pre-service elementary teachers. Three adjacent classrooms are utilized at West Elementary School in Spearfish. The demonstration classrooms include a first grade classroom, a second grade classroom, and a middle room with one-way mirrors and technology to view the children and teachers. Pre-service education majors can observe effective practices, engage in dialog with their instructor, and conduct research and study regarding curriculum, instructional methods, and assessment.