Daniel Bergman, Ph.D.

Daniel Bergman, Ph.D.

Daniel Bergman, Ph.D.

Professor, Program Chair, Middle/Secondary Science Education

School of Education · College of Education

Corbin Education Center 117
Main Campus

Overview

Dr. Daniel Bergman (Danny) is a Professor and Program Chair for Middle/Secondary Science Education in the School of Education.

Academic Interests and Expertise

Academic Interest

  • Ph.D. Curriculum & Instruction, Science Education  concentration May 2007. Iowa State University; Dr. Michael Clough, Major Professor. Dissertation: The effects of two secondary science teacher education program structures on teachers’ habits of mind and action
  • M.A. Education Administration, School Principalship (7-12) August 2004. University of Nebraska-Kearney; Dr. James Ossian, Advisor
  • M.A. Curriculum & Instruction, Science Education concentration August 2002. University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Dr. Ron Bonnstetter, Advisor
  • B.S. Secondary Science Education May 1999. University of Nebraska-Lincoln; Graduated with High Distinction Endorsements in Physical Science and Chemistry

Previous Certification

  • Nebraska Professional Teaching Certificate Iowa Standard Teaching License. Areas of Endorsement: Physical Science (7-12); Chemistry (7-12)
  • Nebraska Standard Administrative and Supervisory Certificate: 7-12 All Schools

Areas of Teaching Interest

Teaching Interest

Courses Taught

  • CI 270 – Introduction to the Education Profession
  • CI 427 – Philosophical, Historical, and Ethical Foundations of Education
  • CI 325 – Instructional Strategies, Assessment, and Management (ISAM): General Methods
  • CI 425S – ISAM: Science Methods I
  • CI 435S – ISAM: Science Methods II
  • CI 436S – ISAM: Science Methods III
  • CI 458 – Inquiry Based Learning
  • CI 505 – Science, Technology, and Society
  • CI 520 – Physical Science in the Elementary Classroom
  • CI 780S – Technology in the Science Classroom
  • WSUD 102A – First-Year Seminar: Superheroes Go to School

Field Experience Supervision and School Placement Coordination (WSU)

  • CI 315 – Core 1 Practicum
  • CI 426S – Core 2 Practicum: Science
  • CI 412S – Teaching Internship I: Middle Level Science
  • CI 413S – Teaching Internship I: Secondary Level Science
  • CI 461S – Teaching Internship II: Middle Level Science
  • CI 471S – Teaching Internship II: Secondary Level Science
  • CI 860 – Seminar in Research Problems

Publications

Publications (Books)

  • Bergman, D.J. (2023). Teaching Is for Superheroes! Insight and Inspiration for Your Classroom (Tights and Cape Optional). Hoboken, NJ: Jossey-Bass/Wiley.

Publications (Book Chapters)

  • Bergman, D.J. (2020). Secret invasions, lost technology, and 21st Century Learning Skills: How Black Panther saved Wakanda using the “Four Cs.”  In J. Darowski (Ed.), The Ages of the Black Panther (166-181). Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Co., Inc.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2019). Impulsive students, speedster teachers, and education in the 1990s. In J.Darowski (Ed.), The Ages of the Flash (119-137). Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Co., Inc.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Synergistic teaching of science to English language learners: Common components of model ELL and science instruction. In D. Sunal, C. Szymanski Sunal, & E. Wright (Eds.), Research in Science Education—Teaching Science with Hispanic ELLs in k-16 classrooms, 101-133.

Publications (peer-reviewed)

  • Bergman, D.J. (2020). Pre-service teachers’ perceptions of ethical student evaluation practices: Comparing impact of online and face-to-face coursework. Journal of Technology and Teacher Education, 28(4), 665-689. Available at https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/216138/.  
  • Bergman, D.J. (2020). Toying with the periodic table: Using everyday items to investigate classification and properties of matter. Science Activities, 57(4), 175-182. Available at https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00368121.2020.1853500. 
  • Bergman, D.J. (2019). The “Marvel”-ous nature of science: Using superhero movies to teach methods and values in science. The Science Teacher, 86(9), 20-25. Available at https://my.nsta.org/resource/117933/the-marvel-ous-nature-of-science.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2018). Prospective teachers’ perceptions of influential teacher qualities. The Advocate, 23(6). Available at https://newprairiepress.org/advocate/vol23/iss6/6/.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2018). “I think you mean . . .” Potential perils of teacher paraphrasing and alternative responses for student engagement. The Clearing House, 91(4-5), 201-211. Available at https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00098655.2018.1500261.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2018). Pre-service teachers’ pliable perceptions of ethical practices in student evaluation. Issues in Teacher Education, 27(2), 5-23.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2017). If the shoe fits, SORT it: Modifying a “well-worn” activity to explore matter classification. Science and Children, 54(8), 45-51.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2017). Content analysis of science teacher representations in Google Images. Contemporary Issues in Technology & Teacher Education, 17(1). Available at http://www.citejournal.org/volume-17/issue-1-17/science/content-analysis-of-science-teacher-representations-in-google-images/. 
  • Bergman, D.J. (2016). Puzzle boxes for 3D learning about natural hazards. Science Scope, 40(2), 40-47.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2015). Comparing the effects of classroom audio-recording and video-recording on pre-service teachers’ reflection of practice. The Teacher Educator, 50(2), 127-144. Available at http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08878730.2015.1010054.
  • Bergman, D.J., & Morphew, J.W. (2015). Effects of a science content course on elementary pre-service teachers’ self-efficacy of teaching science. Journal of College Science Teaching, 44(3), 73-81.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). Criminals, scientists, and persistent myths for teaching science. Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science, 117(3-4), 203-219.
  • Bergman, D.J., & Morphew, J.W. (2014). Comparing classroom interactive behaviors of science and non-science pre-service teachers. Journal of Classroom Interaction, 49(2), 4-10.
  • Flores, R., Krutka, D.G., Mason, K., & Bergman, D.J. (2014). From evaluation to collaborative reflection: Teacher candidate perceptions of a digital learner-centered classroom observation form. Journal of Technology and Teacher Education, 22(4), 401-421.
  • Krutka, D.G., Bergman, D.J., Flores, R., Mason, K., & Jack, A.R. (2014). Microbloggingabout teaching: Nurturing participatory cultures through collaborative online reflection with pre-service teachers. Teaching and Teacher Education, 40(1), 83-93.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2013). Comparing the effects of suburban and urban field placements on teacher candidates’ experiences and perceptions of family engagement in middle and high schools. The School Community Journal, 23(2), 87-112.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2013). Blending language learning with science. The Science Teacher, 80(4), 46-50.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2013). Pre-service teachers’ perceptions about ethical practices in student evaluation. Issues in Teacher Education, 22(1), 29-48.
  • Yanez, J., Journell, H., & Bergman, D.J. (2012). World population and limited resources: How much have you “bean” eating?  Science and Children, 50(1), 32-37.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2011). Showtime science: Effective use of movies, TV, music, and more to teach force, motion, and machines. Science Scope, 35(4), 40-44.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2011). Synergistic strategies: Science for ELL is science for ALL. Science Scope, 35(3), 40-44.
  • Bergman, D.J., & Olson, J.K. (2011). Got inquiry? Science and Children, 48(7), 44-48.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Vectors on the basketball court. The Science Teacher, 77(3), 66-68.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Why do we have to do this? Teaching beyond content. The Clearing House, 83(4), 129-132.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Two GREEN thumbs up!  Teaching environmental sciencewith Hollywood movies. The Science Teacher—Themed Issue: Going Green: Science Teaching and the Environment, 77(2), 57-60.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2008). Bug talk: A learning module on insect communication.  Science Activities, 45(2), 29-34.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2005). A penny saved is a penny learned. Iowa Science Teachers Journal, 32(3), 16-22.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2004). Share the science! Service learning projects. The Science Teacher, 71(5), 38-39.
  • Dietrich, M., Bender, C.F., Bergman, D.J., Bills, T.E., Bochkarev, N.G., Burenkov, A., Gaskell, C.M., Gutzmer, D.D., Grove, R., Hiller, M.E., Huchra, J.P., Klimek, E.S., Lund, C., Merkulova, N., Pebley, S., Poulsen, M.A., Pronik, V.I., Sergeev, S.G., Sergeeva, Shapovalova, A.I., Vlasyuk, V.V., & Wilkes, B. (2001). A spectroscopic and photometric study of short-timescale variability in NGC 5548. Astronomy & Astrophysics, 371, 79-92.

Publications (editor-reviewed)

  • Bergman, D.J. (2025). Remembering more than your ‘why.’ Edutopia. Available at

    https://www.edutopia.org/article/remembering-more-than-your-why-teacher.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2024). 4 practical tips for improving as a teacher. Edutopia. Available at https://www.edutopia.org/article/how-teachers-can-improve-time.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2024). 5 ways to use playing cards for cooperative learning. Edutopia. Available at https://www.edutopia.org/article/creating-random-groups-classroom-elementary-school.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2023). What is your teacher superhero “origin story?” Middle Web: Teaching and learning in grades 4-8. Available at

    https://www.middleweb.com/49591/what-is-your-teacher-superhero-origin-story/.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2022). Problems with the “teacher pipeline” – An unfit analogy for finding (and fostering) future educators. Ed Prep Matters, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE). Available at https://edprepmatters.net/2022/11/opinion-problems-with-the-teacher-pipeline-an-unfit-analogy-for-finding-and-fostering-future-educators.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2022). The masked teacher. Edutopia. Available at

    https://www.edutopia.org/article/masked-teacher.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2020). What Zoom reminded me about effective teaching. Ed Prep Matters, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE). Available at https://edprepmatters.net/2020/06/what-zoom-reminded-me-about-effective-teaching/.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2016). Meaningful discussions in class discussion boards.

    Instructional Design & Technology Blog. Wichita State University. Available at

    https://ida.wichita.edu/meaningful-discussions-in-class-discussion-boards/.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2015). How do you get better? The KATS News: Kansas

    Association of Teachers of Science, 46(1), 4.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2015). More myth busting in science education: Are you a tough scientist? The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 46(1), 10-12.

     

  • Bergman, D.J. (2015). Kansas Association of Teachers of Science position statement on the Next Generation Science Standards. The Wichita Eagle. Available at http://www.kansas.com/opinion/letters-to-the-editor/article12316025.html.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). Get connected. The KATS News: Kansas Association of

    Teachers of Science, 45(4), 4.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). Science teaching myths: Are your students more logical and ready for the next level? The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 45(4), 19-22.

  • Pokorski, E., Needham, A., & Bergman, D.J. (2014). Examining experimental design with Pop Rocks and MythBusters. The KATS News: Kansas Association of

    Teachers of Science, 45(4), 6-10.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). Changes to STEM teacher preparation requirements in Kansas. Association for Science Teacher Education Newsletter, 48(3), 20-22.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). We still graduate more criminals than scientists: Reflecting on reasons for teaching and impact on students. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 45(3), 9-12.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). You are a superhero. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 45(3), 3.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2014). Teacher-licensure change not in best interest of children, state. The Wichita Eagle. Available at http://www.kansas.com/2014/04/24/3419842/daniel-bergman-teacher-licensure.html.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2013). Timeless teaching for EVERY generation. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 46(3), 10.

  • Flores, R., Krutka, D.G., Mason, K., & Bergman, D.J. (2013). “More like a conversation”: Cultivating reflective dialogue with a student-centered classroom observation form.

    PDS Partners, 9(2), 15.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2013). What do you look like? Reflecting on “science teacher” depictions found in Google Images. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 46(2), 4.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Cinema science—2010 edition. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 43(4), 14-15.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Quality responses. New Teacher Advocate, 18(1), 13.

  • Bergman, D.J., & Bergman, C.C. (2009). Elements of stylish teaching: Lessons from Strunk and White’s compositional classic. Phi Delta Kappan, 91(4), 28-31.

    Awarded one of twelve “Must-Read” articles for 2009-2010 by Kappan editorial staff.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2009). Non-verbal teaching behaviors: Actions speak louder than words. Shocker Ed News: Wichita State University Department of Curriculum and Instruction, 2(3), 2.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2009). Showtime science: KATS KAMP highlights and summer preview. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 42(3), 17-18.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2009). Quality questions. New Teacher Advocate, 16(4), 4-5.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2008). Effective teacher questioning skills. Shocker Ed News: Wichita State University Department of Curriculum and Instruction, 2(1), 2.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2008). Responding to your students. Shocker Ed News: Wichita State University Department of Curriculum and Instruction, 2(2), 2.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2008). What is YOUR role? Essential behaviors of effective science teaching. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 41(2), 22-29.

               

  • Bergman, D.J. (2008). What are we doing today? A guide to planning effective science lessons. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 40(2), 14-19.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2008). Why do we have to learn this? Teaching goals beyond science content. The KATS News: Kansas Association of Teachers of Science, 39(2), 26-28.

Presentations

  • Bergman, D.J. (July 2025). Guest Speaker of the Harvey County Talk podCEDt, where he discussed teaching, teacher education, and his book Teaching Is for Superheroes! The interview is available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYiJf1lErrk.  
  • Bergman, D.J. (June 2025). Unlock Your Origin Story to Empower Your Impact at the Educators Rising National Conference, an event with over 3,500 middle and high school students and their sponsors. 

Professional Experience

Teaching and Research Experience

  • August 2019 – Present – Professor, Wichita State University                                          
  • August 2013 – July 2019 – Associate Professor, Wichita State University
  • August 2007 – July 2013 – Assistant Professor, Wichita State University
    • Curriculum & Instruction/School of Education – Science Education
    • Chair, Middle/Secondary Science Program  
    • Interim Department Head, July 2018 – June 2019
    • Researched effective science instruction, teacher behaviors, teacher preparation
    • Submitted grant proposals and participated in ongoing funded research projects
    • Taught senior- and graduate-level courses in general teaching methods, secondary science teaching methods, science/technology/society, and history/philosophy/ethics of education
    • Supervised pre-service and in-service secondary teachers
    • Advised undergraduate, graduate, and incoming transfer students
    • Developed program requirements for KSDE/NCATE/CAEP accreditation
    • Presented at regional and international education conferences
    • Submitted research and education articles for publishing in professional journals
    • Served on multiple college and department committees (faculty senate, position searches,  community outreach, programs, rules, data input/reports)
  • August 2004 – May 2007 – Research and Teaching Graduate Assistant, Iowa State University
    • Curriculum & Instruction – Science Education (Ph.D.)
    • Researched effective science instruction, teacher behaviors, nature of science
    • Taught senior-level science methods courses for elementary majors (7 sem) 
    • Taught senior- and graduate-level science methods courses for secondary majors (2 sem)
    • Supervised secondary science student teachers (undergraduate and graduate)
    • Analyzed participant statistics from science education research and outreach programs
    • Advised Masters of Arts in Teaching graduate certification students
    • Presented at regional and national science educator conferences
    • Coordinated student visits and activities with NASA researchers on campus
    • Created, edited, and produced DVD for use by area science curriculum consultants with ELL science students
  •  August 1999 – May 2004 – Secondary Science Teacher, Aurora High School, Aurora, NE    
    • High School Chemistry, AP Chemistry, Physics, Biology
    • Developed and implemented instruction in science units
    • Received district-wide grant to implement computer-based laboratory curriculum
    • Coordinated student service learning project at Edgerton Science Museum
    • Member of Technology, Student Assistance, School Improvement Steering Committees
    • Sponsored Future Problem Solving Program (2002-2004 State Champion Teams)
    • Directed High School Drama Productions – Musical, One-Act Play, Spring Play

Awards and Honors

Awards and Honors

  • 2026 – WSU Leadership in the Advancement of Teaching 
  • 2022 – WSU School of Education Jean Spalding Faculty Fellowship 
  • 2015 – WSU College of Education Online Grant Award 
  • 2014 – WSU College of Education Teaching Award 
  • 2011 – WSU Technology Integration Award – On-Line Foundations Course 
  • 2011 – WSU Research Award – Elementary Science Content Course 
  • 2010 – ASTE Award V: Implications of Research for Educational Practice 
  • 2009-2010 – “Must-Read” Kappan Article for 2009-2010, “Elements of stylish teaching”
  • 2009 – Nominee for WSU Academy for Effective Teaching Award 
  • 2005-2007 -Margaret & Barton Morgan Scholarships (ISU Curriculum & Instruction) 
  • 2004-2005 – ISU Graduate College PACE (Premium for Academic Excellence) Award 
  • 2002-2003 – Who’s Who Among American Teachers 
  • 2003 – Nominee for RadioShack’s National Science Teacher Award 
  • 1998-1999 – Voted “Outstanding Rank Leader” in Cornhusker Marching Band 
  • 1996-1999 – Golden Key National Honor Society 
  • Pi Lambda Theta National Honor and Professional Association in Education
  • 1996 – Member of Sudler Trophy-winning Cornhusker Marching Band

Grants

Grants

  • Bergman, D.J. (2025). Remote Science Learning Experiences with Smart Cameras. Corbin Connect Technology Grant Presented by Credit Union of America. Funded at $4,924.68.

  • Bergman, D.J. (2024). Upgrading STEM Education. College of Education Dean’s Mini-Grant. Wichita State University. Funded at $2,000.

  • Lee, S., Bergman, D.J, Novacek, G., & Durano, C. (2019). Space Sciences Hands-On Activities and Practices for Middle School Classrooms Using NASA Education Resources (S2HAP). NASA Kansas Space Grant Consortium (KSGC). Funded at $30,000.

  • McDowell, K., Bergman, D.J., & Haines, B. (2017). Para to Teacher Pathway. Kansas Board of Regents, Title II Improving Teacher Quality (ITQ). Funded at $114,761.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2010). Family and parent involvement—Curriculum enhancement initiative. The Kansas Parent Information Resource Center (KPIRC). Funded at $3,000.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2009). Family and parent involvement—Curriculum enhancement initiative. The Kansas Parent Information Resource Center (KPIRC). Funded at $3,500.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2007). Comparing the effects of audio- and video-recording on pre-service teachers’ self-evaluations. University Research/Creative Projects Award (URCA). Wichita State University. Funded at $4,486.
  • Bergman, D.J., & Huls, T. (2003). Crash! National Highway Administration safety and science curriculum. Aurora (NE) School District. Funded at $5,000.
  • Bergman, D.J. (2000). Computer-based laboratory interfaces and software for enhanced science instruction. Aurora (NE) School District. Funded at $5,000.

  • Lee, S., Bergman, D., Novacek, G., & Durano, C. (2019). Space Sciences Hands-On Activities and Practices for Middle School Classrooms Using NASA Education Resources (S2HAP). NASA Kansas Space Grant Consortium (KSGC). Funded at $30,000.

Areas of Service

Service to the Profession

Reviewer for The Science Teacher, Teachers College Record, Journal of Teacher Education, Journal of Science Teacher Education, Teacher Educator, Basic and Applied Psychology, Visual Data and Their Use in Science Education, Iowa Science Teachers Journal

  • 2025-2028 – District XI Leader (KS/MO/NE) and Leadership Council, National Science Teaching Association (2025-2028)

  • 2015-2016 – Past-President, Kansas Association of Teachers of Science 
  • 2014-2015 – President, Kansas Association of Teachers of Science 
  • 2013-2014 – President-Elect, Kansas Association of Teachers of Science 
  • 2012-2013 – Vice President, KATS 
  • 2007-2012 – Region IV College Representative, KATS 
  • 2008-Present – Social Media/Communications Chair, KATS 
  • 2007-2010 – Professional Development Committee Member, ASTE 
  • 2007-Present – Proposal Reviewer and Session Presider, International ASTE Meetings
  • 2009 – Evaluator, WSU Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects Symposium
  • 2006 – Fall Conference Program Coordinator, Iowa Science Teachers Section 
  • 2005 – Science Consultant and DVD Producer, Enhancing ELL Science Institute 

Other Interests

Community Involvement

  • Kansas Junior Academy of Science State Meeting Judge
  • Big Brother for At-Risk Youth, BBBS of Sedgwick County, Kansas
  • Volunteer for Southern Care Hospice
  • Trumpet player for churches and community senior centers
  • Volunteer for Lincoln YWCA’s Take a Break Program
  • Tutor for At-Risk Students, Lincoln Action Program 

Additional Information

Professional Memberships

  • Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education
  • Association for Science Teacher Education
  • National Science Teachers Association
  • National Association of Research in Science Teaching
  • Kansas Association of Teachers of Science
  • American Association of Physics Teachers
  • American Chemical Society
  • Science & Mathematics Teacher Imperative (SMTI) of Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities
  • National Association of Professional Development Schools
  • Phi Delta Kappa
  • National Education Association
  • Aurora (NE) Education Association