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The Essential Teaching and Learning Source

What We Do

Design new courses and educational programs with cutting-edge, science-based active learning

Upgrade existing courses and educational programs to take advantage of cutting-edge, science-based active learning

Teach faculty and instructional designers how to use cutting-edge, science-based active learning

Harness the Power of AI to Transform Learning and Flourish in a Changing World

Explore Stephen M. Kosslyn's groundbreaking works that blend the science of learning with the potential of AI. From demystifying artificial intelligence for educators to reimagining online teaching and preparing for an AI-driven future, these books are your guide to creating engaging, effective, and innovative learning experiences. Whether you're an instructor, course designer, or lifelong learner, discover practical strategies and insights to thrive in the Age of AI.

Explore Stephen's Books

Our Story

We aim to spread the word on science-based, highly effective pedagogy.

Stephen M. Kosslyn, Founder

After three decades on the Harvard faculty, to Center Director at Stanford, to Founding Dean and Chief Academic Officer at Minerva, to President of Foundry College, I came to realize that the best way to fulfill my mission in life is not to teach students directly, but rather to teach teachers. And, more than this, to help others to use the science of learning to design new, cutting-edge educational programs and courses.

Thus was born Active Learning Sciences. We aim to spread the word on science-based, highly effective pedagogy. We design programs, we design courses, and we design sessions. If you need to teach something, we can help you do so in a way that your students not only will learn easily, but have fun while doing so. Drop us a note… let’s talk!

Dr. Beth Callaghan

Vice President & Director of Research

Dr. Beth Callaghan has been working in higher education for more than a decade. Over the past six years, she has focused on curriculum design, incorporating the science of learning into pedagogy and promoting active learning in diverse classrooms. She received her B.A. in English and World Literature from UCLA, her M.A. in English from UC Irvine, and her Ph.D. in English and Gender Studies from the University of Southern California. She has taught in high school and college classrooms in southern California and was previously an Assistant Professor and course designer at The Minerva Schools at KGI. Most recently, she has served as the Dean of Foundry College. She is passionate about creating inspiring curricula that give students real world skills and connect concretely to their life experiences.

Anne Hand

Chief Quality Assurance Officer

Anne has over fifteen years of experience in education and international development, focusing on advancing social equity and fostering well-being through effective collaboration and technology. Anne’s work incorporates digital technology, behavioral insights, and human-centered design, ensuring localized solutions meet stakeholder needs. Her background in education policy and research psychology shapes her interdisciplinary approach to project design and delivery. She holds degrees from McGill University and Harvard University, and sits on the Harvard Graduate School of Education Alumni Council.

Maggie Hagen

Chief AI Officer

Maggie Hagen joined the ALS team in 2021, bringing her background in biology to the field of instructional design. With a Master's Degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology from Saint Louis University and a BS in Biology from Murray State University, Maggie transitioned from academic research to focus on creating dynamic and immersive learning experiences—particularly those that involve interacting with AI. Initially focused on STEM courses, her role has evolved alongside the company's growth to include a diverse variety of projects. Maggie is passionate about creating accessible and engaging learning experiences by incorporating evidence-based teaching strategies from the science of learning and using the latest technologies.

Niki Gallagher Garcia

Director, University Engagement/Project Manager

Niki Gallagher-Garcia brings more than a decade of product and client management experience with her to the Active Learning Sciences team. Niki began her career in the insurance industry, designing, implementing and marketing numerous travel insurance products and programs. She now serves clients as a project manager, overseeing multiple teams, projects and budgets, in addition to managing and executing marketing campaigns.