FAQ: Which Teaching Fellows Program Is Right for You?

WISCIENCE offers 3 different Fellow Programs that involve a teaching experience, and each has a unique focus and benefits. Find out which one may be right for you.

Scientific Teaching Fellows

• Teach a 2-credit course (Exploring Biology (INTEGSCI 100) with both independent and collaborative teaching experiences.
• For applicants in the biosciences or connected fields.
• You will work with the other Fellows in your cohort to plan and implement the course. This is a highly collaborative experience involving a lot of teamwork. 
• The course you teach focuses not only on STEM content, but also on implementing active learning practices and helping create a supportive community for students new to UW–Madison.
• This is an unpaid position. You get credit for your teaching experience. 
• Teaching location is on-campus.

Madison College Teaching Fellows

• Independently teach a 4-credit introductory course in biology, chemistry, physics, math, or computer science. 
• For applicants in any STEM field interested in teaching one of the subjects listed above.  
• You will be solely responsible for planning and implementing the course. This is an independent experience rather than a collaborative one. 
• You will be paired with a mentor from Madison College with whom you’ll work one-on-one during the summer and fall. 
• Because you are teaching at a 2-year school, this is a great opportunity to learn how to teach students from diverse backgrounds. 
• You will be paid for your time teaching. Note that this pay will not replace a TA or RA position, nor does it come with benefits or tuition remission. 
• Priority will be given to applicants who are interested in teaching at 2-year schools.
• Teaching location is Madison College (you’ll need transportation).

STEM Public Service Fellows, Community-Engaged Teaching Track

• Coursework focuses on community engagement rather than teaching practices. 
• You will take courses as a full cohort, alongside Fellows focusing on direct service, science policy, and community-engaged teaching. Collaboration and dialogue across different interest areas is one of the unique, enriching aspects of this program.
• For most Fellows, the teaching practicum is an independent experience leading a 1–2 credit community-based teaching course. Fellows often lead Exploring Service in STEM (IntegSci 140) or Service with Youth in STEM (IntegSci 240); other courses may be available.
• For some Fellows, the teaching practicum involves developing community-engaged curriculum for a course in their discipline. Fellows must choose the course and get permission from the instructor.  
• This is an unpaid position. You get credit for your teaching experience. 
• Teaching location is on-campus.