Dr R.P. Verhoeff (Roald) PhD

Roald Verhoeff is associate professor in science education at the Radboud Teachers Academy. His research interest is in optimizing teaching-learning processes in secondary or higher education, focusing on subject-specific critical thinking and judgment. Part of this is shaping inquiry-based learning about social issues (SocioScientific Inquiry) in secondary science education, whereby drama is one of the means to involve students in (ethical) discussions about science and technology. He mainly uses a design-oriented approach, for example 'lesson study', with qualitative research methods in collaboration with teachers.

He obtained his PhD in biology education on 'systems thinking in cell biology education'. Since then, his research has focused on innovative ways of strengthening reflection on science among teachers and students, as well as among young researchers. He has experience with educational innovation projects in both a national and international context and within primary education, as a project manager at the Radboud University Science Hub, as well as in secondary education, for example within the EU-FP7 project PARRISE, and in higher education for example within the Erasmus+ project INTEGRITY.
Central to these projects was developmental research of educational materials that aim to equip learners for individual and social decision-making in which moral arguments and interests play a role in addition to rational (scientific) arguments. In a European context (PARRISE) he has contributed to a pedagogical approach that links formal and informal science education with social questions; so-called Socio-Scientific Inquiry Based Learning. Also in a European context (E+ and H2020 projects INTEGRITY) he has developed and tested online and 'blended' integrity education for young researchers (Empowerment in Responsible Conduct of Research).

• Radboud Teachers Academy