I am a cognitive and developmental psychologist who investigates STEM learning in childhood and adulthood. I specialize in the STEM domains of science and spatial cognition.
I direct the Learning and Cognition Lab at Lawrence. We seek to uncover how STEM skills develop and to identify ways of best promoting such skills. We take a multilevel approach to our research and consider the interacting roles that individual, developmental, and contextual factors play in STEM learning and development. We examine individual and developmental factors, such as the role of memory, language, and attention. We also examine contextual factors, including parent-child interactions and the artifacts available in one’s environment for learning (e.g., books, teaching aids). In studying STEM learning, we use a variety of methods, such as speech and gesture coding, eye-tracking, and textual analysis. We also work with community partners including schools and museums.
I am currently teaching Research Methods, Cognitive Psychology, and Senior Capstone.
