Primary lab: Learning Ecologies Lab
Affiliated with: Environmental and Social Sustainability Lab
Publications
See my Google Scholar page
Research interests
I am learning scientist with interests in urban environmental education and learning ecosystems. I use design-based research to explore questions of how experiences across home, school, and informal spaces (e.g., parks, museums) support environmental interest and identity development throughout the lifespan. I am particularly interested in how relationships between human beings and more-than-human beings (e.g., plants, animals, water, etc.) impact learning. Research projects are typically developed collaboratively with youth, educators, and community partners through research-practice partnerships.
My approach to research weaves together learning sciences, naturalist practices, community-based stewardship and ecological design. My teaching practice also draws on these disciplines and is structured to strengthen student motivation through a focus on learner interest. My research and teaching are both guided by my commitment to supporting just and equitable learning experiences within thriving multispecies urban communities.
My research areas include:
- Urban environmental education
- Science & environmental identity development
- Relational processes between human and more-than-human beings
- Informal and out-of-school learning
- Learning ecosystem theory and design
Professional background
Prior to my work in academia, I worked as a public-school math & science teacher in my hometown of NYC and as an environmental non-profit leader in Pittsburgh, PA. As the Director of Education for the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy, I led the organization in successfully expanding and diversifying participation in parks-based science education in partnership with local K-12 educators. While in Pittsburgh, I also spearheaded two major urban environmental projects – advocating for the Nine Mile Run aquatic ecosystem restoration, one of the largest urban stream restorations in the U.S. and managing the design and construction of the Frick Environmental Center, a public education and welcome center that is net-zero water and energy and is LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge certified. I received my PhD in Learning Sciences and Policy from the School of Education at the University of Pittsburgh and my MS in Botany from the Field Naturalist program at the University of Vermont.
Prospective graduate students: Please see my Learning Ecologies Lab website for more information.
Courses taught
ENR 3612 – Introduction to Environmental Education & Communications
ENR 4610 – Natural History of Ohio
ENR 5420 – Environmental Education in Action
