Research Interests
Technology and Learning
I am interested in the development of practical, theory-driven systems to improve learning at all levels both inside and outside of formal educational environments. My doctoral dissertation focuses on using an online system to develop the understanding and ability of instructors to create and use multiple-choice questions for effective, formative assessment of learner abilities. I am inspired by the results of systems such as Carnegie Mellon’s Cognitive Tutor, which has been successful at achieving two standard deviation improvements in 8th grade algebra scores for students at all ability levels.
Web Standards and Information Management
The advancement of the Internet and the growing ubiquity of computer networks has given rise to a new trend in systems development called the Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA). In this development paradigm, information to support individuals and groups is available anytime/anywhere in flexible, networked, and interoperable formats. Engrossing challenges exist in delivering information where, when, and how it is needed to people via various devices, e.g. cell phones, PDAs, laptops, and in various formats, e.g. speech, paper, screen, video. I plan to integrate research in this area with my work on learning systems.