UW–Madison’s Aireale J. Rodgers, an assistant professor in the School of Education’s Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, has been appointed to serve as Secretary of the International Society of the Learning Sciences (ISLS).
“The learning sciences has long been an intellectual home for me,” said Rodgers, whose research explores the histories, current realities, and future possibilities of teaching and learning within higher education. “Theories from the learning sciences have been integral in helping me conceptualize and design new ways for people in various disciplines to engage in equity-minded pedagogical change and organizational learning.”
Rodgers has previously served as co-chair of the International Learning Sciences Student Association (ILSSA), and she currently sits on both the ISLS Publications Committee and Equity + Justice Committee.
“Dr. Rodgers will be an ideal Secretary of ISLS because she has a proven track record of working to improve the practices of our Society to make sure everyone belongs,” said Tanner Vea, outgoing Secretary of ISLS. “She will be a strong voice for students, early-career faculty, and scholars from marginalized communities.”
Reflecting on the role of disciplinary societies like ISLS, Rodgers noted that in today’s increasingly volatile higher education climate, such organizations are even more vital for learning and professional development — particularly around issues of equity and justice. “My femtors in the learning sciences have modeled for me the ways that learning truly is about the process of coming to know, do, and be different — in ways that create just and humane conditions for thriving,” she said.
“As an international society, I believe ISLS has a unique opportunity to build principled, expansive, and diverse coalitions to address some of the world’s most pressing learning opportunities. I am honored to lend my service to the Society to forward this work.”