Preparing students and educators to tackle complex societal challenges through transdisciplinary learning, research, and innovation.
SOURCE is a National Science Foundation-funded initiative advancing how universities prepare students to solve complex, real-world problems through transdisciplinary learning, research, and innovation.
SOURCE
Scaling Convergence Education for a Changing World
SOURCE (Scaling Our Undergraduate Real-world Convergence Education) is a National Science Foundation-funded initiative advancing how universities prepare students to solve complex, real-world problems. We study and strengthen Convergence Education (CE), an approach where learning integrates ideas and methods from multiple disciplines to address meaningful societal and scientific challenges.
SOURCE builds on 鶹Ʒ's successful M3 Design & Innovation Program, which has engaged more than 900 undergraduates from 65 majors.
This project is supported by the National Science Foundation. Any opinions, and findings expressed in this material are the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of NSF.
Funded by the National Science Foundation
Award #2439279
Our Approach
SOURCE advances convergence education through three interconnected pillars that transform how students learn to address complex challenges.
Transdisciplinary Learning
Students integrate knowledge and methods from multiple fields to solve real-world problems, moving beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
Research & Evidence
Rigorous research methodology ensures our educational models are evidence-based and continuously improved through systematic evaluation.
Models for National Scale
We develop scalable frameworks and resources that enable universities nationwide to implement effective convergence education programs.
Impact by the Numbers
Building on proven success with M3 Design & Innovation
900+
Undergraduates
Students engaged through M3 program
65
鶹Ʒ
Disciplines represented in convergence education
M3
Foundation
Design & Innovation Program model
Recent Publications
Research and scholarship advancing convergence education
Owen, S. & Strimel, G. J. (2025). Navigating the motivational rollercoaster of long-term design projects. PATT International Conference.
Martinez, R., Briller, S., & Strimel, G. J. (2025). What Would It Take to Achieve Convergence Education? ASEE Annual Conference.
Strimel, G. J. & Lucas, D. (2023). Design & technology education: Preparing students for the future through transdisciplinary learning. PATT Conference.
Become a SOURCE Fellow
Join our community of graduate students and educators advancing convergence education research. Fellows receive funding, mentorship, and opportunities to contribute to national-scale educational innovation.
Industry & University Partners
Collaborate with us to develop and implement convergence education models. We work with organizations committed to preparing students for complex, real-world challenges.