Newswise — Florida Atlantic University professor of science education in FAU's College of Education, Dr. David Devraj Kumar, was recently awarded the prestigious 2006 "Chemical Pioneer Award" by the American Institute of Chemists. This award recognizes individuals who have exemplified by their contributions, excellence in the chemical sciences and profession. Kumar's contributions include pioneering research in user-computer interface in chemistry problem-solving, and hypermedia science learning environments that have laid a foundation for others seeking to develop computer-assisted science learning environments. This award was first presented in 1966 and includes an impressive list of awardees such as Dr. Linus C. Pauling who received the award in 1975.
"It is both humbling and an honor to receive this award from the American Institute of Chemists," said Kumar.
Kumar is also associate dean of research at FAU's College of Education and has untiringly promoted both science education and scientific literacy. Through his "Chemistry for All" approach, he is dedicated to improving science teaching and learning. He has been cited as an author who routinely promotes innovative science education for furthering science literacy and a scientifically literate workforce. Kumar has also made substantial contributions to science related policy in the United States. As a result, he received the Miriam Mills Award from the Policy Studies Organization. Since his tenure with FAU which began in 1993, he has received numerous recognitions for teaching and research.
"I have long valued David's diligence as a research collaborator and an educator," said Dr. Daryl E. Chubin, director of the Center for Advancing Science & Engineering Capacity at the American Association for the Advancement of Science. "This recognition is well-deserved."
"Dr. Kumar's contributions to science are far reaching and we are proud to have him as an FAU researcher," said Dr. Larry F. Lemanski, vice president for research at FAU. "He has researched science teaching technologies, contributed to a number of related publications and conducted important research in his field." Kumar received his doctorate in science education from Vanderbilt University in 1991 and his master's degree in analytical chemistry from the University of Louisville in 1987.
Florida Atlantic University opened its doors in 1964 as the fifth public university in Florida. Today, the university serves 26,000 undergraduate and graduate students on seven campuses strategically located along 150 miles of Florida's southeastern coastline. Building on its rich tradition as a teaching and research university, with a world-class faculty, FAU hosts eight colleges - the Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts & Letters, the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, the Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, the Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College, and the Colleges of Business, Education, Engineering & Computer Science, and Architecture, Urban & Public Affairs.
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