Prof. Divonna Stebick champions inquiry-based teaching

With a devotion to inquiry-based teaching and a commitment to education equity, Prof. Divonna Stebick has made a lasting impact on future educators at Gettysburg College.

A highly influential member of our campus since 2003, Stebick serves as a Professor of Sociology in Educational Studies and the Director of the Office of Teacher Education and Certification. She has inspired thousands of Gettysburg students through her engaging courses and even played a key role in reintroducing and expanding the College’s Teacher Certification Program this past spring.

Central to Stebick’s teaching philosophy is the idea that curiosity is essential for learning. “I tell students that they cannot learn if they are not curious,” she explained. “My teaching is inquiry, my research is inquiry, and my grading is inquiry. I use an inquiry approach, giving my students questions to think about while encouraging them come up with questions of their own. My hope is for that initial curiosity to keep my students going and hopefully spark a passion.”

Recognizing that inquiry depends on effective communication, Stebick strives to create a safe and respectful learning environment for her students. She fosters discussions that ignite reflection and critical thinking to help students navigate their educational journeys. “I want my students to unpack the hiccups, challenges, and celebrations of their educational backgrounds,” she said. “By sharing my own experiences, we can dive into deep conversations and question one another in a friendly way.” 

In her classes, Stebick uses a practice called ungrading, where learning is emphasized more than grades through students’ critical self-reflection and professor feedback. “Think about it like if a boss told you that you did a good job. You would ask, ‘on what?’ Students want specific, constructive feedback and next steps.” 

One of Stebick’s favorite classes to teach is her Introduction to Educational Studies course. “My goal is for students to leave my intro class with a passion for education equity. I want them to be advocates for it, whether it be in public, private, or charter schools.” Once Gettysburg students take her intro class, they can choose to enter the Teacher Certification Program, pursue an Educational Studies minor, or continue to dabble in other Education courses to deepen their understanding.  

Regardless of whether her students plan to enter the teaching field, Stebick encourages lifelong curiosity and continued engagement with education. “If you are going into any field that requires working with people, you also want to learn how to connect with and teach them. A doctor, for instance, wants to learn how to teach their patients and talk to them in an informative way. It’s a valuable aspect of a quality liberal arts education.”

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By Brooke Askin ’25
Photo by McKenna White ’25
Posted: 10/29/24

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